There’s something deeply comforting about the smell of freshly baked Anzac biscuits wafting through the kitchen. These traditional Australian treats, originally created to send to soldiers during World War I, have remained a beloved staple across generations. Among the many versions of this iconic recipe, the CWA Anzac Biscuit recipe endorsed and preserved by the Country Women’s Association stands out for its authenticity, simplicity, and enduring flavor. Whether baked for Anzac Day or enjoyed with a cup of tea year-round, these biscuits are a nostalgic reminder of community, history, and home-style cooking.
The Legacy of Anzac Biscuits
Historical Roots
Anzac biscuits hold a special place in Australian and New Zealand culinary history. The name ‘ANZAC’ stands for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, and these biscuits were made by women during wartime to send to soldiers overseas. They were designed to last a long journey without spoiling hence the absence of eggs and the reliance on pantry staples like rolled oats, golden syrup, flour, and sugar. Their long shelf life and simple preparation made them ideal for wartime care packages.
The CWA Connection
The Country Women’s Association (CWA) has been a guardian of traditional Australian recipes for over a century. Their version of the Anzac biscuit is one of the most respected and widely followed. It maintains the original rustic charm of the biscuit while balancing flavor and texture. CWA recipes are often handed down through families, symbolizing unity, strength, and heritage.
Ingredients in the CWA Anzac Biscuit Recipe
Traditional Ingredients
The classic CWA Anzac Biscuit recipe avoids any overly processed or fancy ingredients. Here’s what typically goes into each batch:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- ¾ cup brown sugar or white sugar
- 125g unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup
- ½ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
- 1 tablespoon boiling water
Golden syrup is a crucial ingredient that adds richness and helps bind the dough. It’s part of what gives Anzac biscuits their distinctive chewy texture and deep, toffee-like flavor.
Optional Additions
While purists prefer to stick to the traditional recipe, some home bakers add a twist by incorporating extras such as:
- A pinch of salt to balance sweetness
- Chopped nuts like macadamia or walnuts
- A dash of cinnamon for warmth
- Chocolate chips for a modern take
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Dough
To begin, preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, coconut, and sugar. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter and golden syrup together over low heat. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and fully combined. Separately, dissolve the bicarbonate of soda in boiling water, then add this to the butter and syrup mixture. The mixture will foam up slightly this reaction is essential for the biscuit’s signature texture.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until the dough forms. It should be sticky but firm enough to shape into small balls.
Baking Process
Roll tablespoons of dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving enough space between each to allow for spreading. Gently flatten each ball with the back of a spoon.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on your preference. For chewier biscuits, remove them when they are golden but still soft in the center. For a crispier finish, bake a few minutes longer until they are deeply golden brown.
Allow the biscuits to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Texture and Flavor Profile
What to Expect
The CWA Anzac Biscuit recipe delivers a biscuit that’s perfectly balanced between chewy and crisp. The outer edge is typically golden and crunchy, while the center remains soft and dense. The flavor is rich, buttery, and slightly caramelized thanks to the golden syrup and sugar, with subtle notes of oats and coconut adding earthiness and depth.
Ideal Pairings
These biscuits are most often enjoyed with a hot drink. Tea is the traditional accompaniment, but they pair equally well with coffee or hot chocolate. They also make great additions to dessert platters or school lunchboxes, thanks to their durability and wholesome ingredients.
Storage and Longevity
How to Store
Once baked and cooled, Anzac biscuits should be stored in an airtight container to preserve freshness. They will keep well for up to two weeks at room temperature, making them an ideal make-ahead treat for gatherings or holidays.
Freezing Options
You can also freeze the unbaked dough for later. Shape the dough into balls, freeze them on a tray, and transfer to a freezer bag once solid. When ready to bake, add an extra minute or two to the baking time and enjoy freshly baked biscuits on demand.
Respecting the Tradition
Protected Name
It’s worth noting that the name Anzac Biscuit is protected under Australian law. To use this name commercially, products must adhere to specific guidelines set by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. This regulation ensures that the historical and cultural significance of these biscuits is preserved.
Baking on Anzac Day
Baking CWA Anzac Biscuits on Anzac Day (April 25th) is a cherished tradition for many Australian families. It’s a simple yet powerful way to honor the memory of soldiers who served and to connect with a shared culinary heritage. Many schools and community groups also participate in baking and sharing these biscuits during commemorative events.
Why the CWA Recipe Stands Out
Consistency and Quality
The CWA’s reputation for high-quality, reliable recipes is part of what makes their version of the Anzac biscuit so enduring. Their approach emphasizes tradition, simplicity, and wholesome ingredients, resulting in a product that consistently delivers on taste and texture.
Community and Connection
Baking from a CWA cookbook or recipe sheet is about more than just food. It’s about feeling part of something larger a community that values history, hospitality, and heart. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or trying Anzac biscuits for the first time, using the CWA recipe provides a meaningful connection to generations of bakers before you.
The CWA Anzac Biscuit recipe is a timeless reminder of the power of simplicity. Made from humble ingredients and baked with care, these biscuits offer more than just flavor they represent history, tradition, and community. Whether baked for remembrance or for everyday enjoyment, their place in Australian culture is secure. And every bite, whether chewy or crunchy, tells a story of resilience, love, and home.