Anzacs

Anzacs are a traditional Australian and New Zealand biscuit (cookie) made from a combination of rolled oats, desiccated coconut, flour, sugar, butter, golden syrup, and bicarbonate of soda, yielding a characteristically chewy or crisp golden wafer depending on baking time and moisture content. The absence of eggs in the recipe is a defining feature, as this allowed the biscuits to be shipped long distances without spoiling. Though classified here among loaf-style quick breads, Anzacs are most commonly produced as individually portioned drop biscuits and are recognized across the Australasian region as a staple of home baking.

Cultural Significance

The name 'Anzac' is an acronym for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, and the biscuits are historically associated with World War I, when it is widely believed that wives, mothers, and community groups sent them to soldiers serving overseas due to their long shelf life. The recipe holds such national significance in Australia and New Zealand that the use of the name 'Anzac' in commercial contexts is legally regulated by both governments out of respect for its military heritage. Anzac Day, observed on April 25th each year, remains closely associated with the consumption and gifting of these biscuits as an act of remembrance.