Introduction
Anzac biscuits are a beloved treat in Australia and New Zealand, originating from the wartime era. These traditional oat biscuits offer a delightful balance of chewiness and crunch, making them a perfect snack or dessert. Easy to make and featuring a rich buttery flavor, Anzac biscuits are a nostalgic recipe that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
150g all-purpose flour
100g rolled oats
90g desiccated coconut
150g granulated sugar
125g unsalted butter
2 tablespoon golden syrup
½ teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoon boiling water
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 20 biscuits
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, desiccated coconut, and sugar.
3. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and golden syrup together.
4. In a small bowl, dissolve the baking soda in boiling water, then add it to the butter mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
6. Roll tablespoons of the mixture into balls and place them on the prepared tray, flattening them slightly.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, desiccated coconut, and granulated sugar.
Step 3: Melt Butter and Syrup
In a saucepan over low heat, melt together the unsalted butter and golden syrup until smooth.
Step 4: Prepare Baking Soda Mixture
In a small bowl, dissolve the baking soda in the boiling water. Once dissolved, add it to the melted butter and golden syrup mixture, stirring well.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is fully combined.
Step 6: Form Biscuit Balls
Using tablespoons, roll the mixture into balls and place them on the prepared tray. Flatten each ball slightly.
Step 7: Bake the Biscuits
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
Step 8: Cool the Biscuits
Allow the biscuits to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Storage
Store the Anzac biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Texture
The biscuits should have a balanced texture of both chewiness and crunch when baked properly.
Customization
Feel free to add ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts for a different flavor.
Servings
This recipe yields approximately 20 biscuits.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature
Store the Anzac biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They will maintain their freshness and texture, thanks to the combination of oats and coconut.
Refrigeration
For extended shelf life, you can refrigerate the biscuits. Just ensure they are in a tightly sealed container. They can last for up to two weeks in the fridge.
Freezing
If you wish to preserve the biscuits for longer periods, consider freezing them. Wrap each biscuit individually in cling film or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before consuming.
Serving Suggestions
With Tea or Coffee
Anzac biscuits pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy them as a relaxed afternoon snack or serve them to guests during a tea party.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
For a delightful dessert, crumble a biscuit on top of a serving of vanilla ice cream or serve sandwiches with ice cream in between two biscuits.
On a Picnic
These biscuits are ideal for picnics or lunchboxes due to their sturdy texture and portability. They hold up well and are sure to satisfy hunger while outdoors.
Nutritional Information
Per Biscuit (Approximate)
Calories: 120
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 20mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 2g
Vitamins and Minerals
These biscuits provide small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium, mainly sourced from the oats and coconut.
Ingredient Substitutions
Flour
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, note that this may slightly alter the texture.
Butter
For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Golden Syrup
If golden syrup is unavailable, you can replace it with light corn syrup or honey, although the flavor will differ slightly.
Desiccated Coconut
In case of a coconut allergy, you can leave it out altogether or replace it with finely shredded nuts like almonds or macadamia nuts for added texture.
Sugar
If you're looking to reduce sugar, you may use a sugar substitute designed for baking, but be sure to follow the conversion guidelines provided with the substitute.
Cook Techniques
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
Ensure to measure the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, desiccated coconut, and sugar accurately for the best texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
Melting Butter and Golden Syrup
Melt the butter and golden syrup gently over low heat to avoid burning. This helps to create a smooth mixture that incorporates well with the dry ingredients.
Dissolving Baking Soda
Dissolve the baking soda in boiling water before adding it to the wet ingredients. This activation allows the biscuits to rise properly during baking.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits, so combine gently.
Shaping the Biscuits
Roll the mixture into balls and flatten them slightly before baking. This helps them spread evenly in the oven and achieve the desired texture.
Baking Temperature
Bake the biscuits at 160°C (320°F) for even cooking. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
Cooling Period
Let the biscuits cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This ensures they firm up properly and maintain their shape.
FAQ
Can I substitute golden syrup with another sweetener?
Yes, you can replace golden syrup with honey or maple syrup, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
How can I make my Anzac Biscuits chewier?
For a chewier texture, reduce the baking time slightly or add an extra tablespoon of golden syrup.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture and flavor of the biscuits.
How should I store Anzac Biscuits?
Store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
What can I add to Anzac Biscuits for extra flavor?
You can add ingredients like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Anzac Biscuits are a delightful choice for anyone seeking a touch of tradition combined with a satisfying texture. Their buttery flavor, paired with the chewiness of oats and the crunch of coconut, makes them a favorite snack for all occasions. Easy to make and deeply rooted in history, these biscuits are a wonderful treat to enjoy with family and friends.
Chocolate Chip Anzac Biscuits
Incorporate semi-sweet chocolate chips into the classic Anzac Biscuit recipe for a sweet twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Nutty Anzac Biscuits
Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the mixture for an extra crunch and nutty flavor which harmonizes beautifully with the other ingredients.
Spiced Anzac Biscuits
Introduce a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spiced note, perfect for winter baking or festive occasions.
Dried Fruit Anzac Biscuits
Mix in dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots to provide a chewy texture and a burst of flavor in each bite.
Gluten-Free Anzac Biscuits
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free to create a suitable variation for those with dietary restrictions.
Coconut Chocolate Anzac Biscuits
Combine desiccated coconut and cocoa powder to create a rich, chocolatey twist on the classic recipe while retaining the coconut's delightful flavor.
Peanut Butter Anzac Biscuits
Incorporate creamy or crunchy peanut butter in place of some of the butter for a nutty variation that also adds richness to the biscuits.
Leave a Reply