The Story of the Australian Anzac Biscuit
The Anzac biscuit is a simple, sweet treat that holds a special place in the hearts of Australians and New Zealanders. It’s more than just a biscuit—it’s a symbol of history, remembrance, and unity. This article will share the story of how the Anzac biscuit came to be and why it remains so important in Australia today.
What Is an Anzac Biscuit?
Anzac biscuits are crunchy or chewy biscuits made from basic ingredients: rolled oats, flour, sugar, butter, golden syrup, baking soda, and desiccated coconut. They smell delicious and taste even better. But one thing that makes them unique is that they don’t contain eggs—something unusual for biscuits. This is actually part of its history.
Anzac biscuits were created during World War I, which lasted from 1914 to 1918. “Anzac” stands for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, the name given to soldiers from Australia and New Zealand who fought side by side in the war. Today, these soldiers are remembered every year on Anzac Day, which falls on April 25th—a national day of remembrance in both countries.
The Origins of Anzac Biscuits
The story of the Anzac biscuit begins during World War I. Life during the war was hard for everyone, especially the soldiers fighting overseas. They faced long days in trenches, extreme weather, and poor food supplies. Meanwhile, back home, families wanted to send care packages to their loved ones on the front lines. But there was one big challenge: it took a long time for the packages to arrive, and many foods would spoil before reaching the soldiers.
So, the people at home had to get creative. They started baking biscuits that wouldn’t go bad during the long journey to the battlefields. Eggs weren’t used in the recipe because they were expensive and harder to get during wartime. Instead, golden syrup was added to help bind the ingredients together. The biscuits didn’t need refrigeration, lasted for weeks, and were nutritious for the soldiers.
At first, these biscuits were simply called “soldier’s biscuits.” But as Australia and New Zealand’s troops became known as the Anzacs, the name changed—and so the “Anzac biscuit” was born.
A Symbol of Love and Support
Anzac biscuits were more than just food—they were a way for families to stay connected to their loved ones who were far away. Making the biscuits required time and effort, so each batch carried the love and care of the people back home. Soldiers could feel that their families were thinking about them and wanted to provide a little comfort, even from thousands of kilometers away.
The biscuits also served a practical purpose. They were tough and hardy, which made them perfect for rough conditions. Soldiers would eat them as snacks or crush them into something called “porridge” to make them easier to eat.
Anzac Biscuits After the War
When the war ended, the tradition of the Anzac biscuit didn’t stop. Instead, it became a way to remember the bravery and sacrifices of the Anzacs. People started making them every year for Anzac Day, a day to honor soldiers who fought and died in wars and conflicts.
Anzac biscuits became a symbol of unity, reminding Australians and New Zealanders of their shared history. They aren’t just eaten on Anzac Day—many bakeries and households make them year-round—but they carry special meaning during this time of remembrance.
Over the years, different versions of the Anzac biscuit emerged, with some bakers adding extra ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips. But the traditional recipe remains simple, honoring the original spirit of the biscuit.
Protecting the Anzac Name
Because the name “Anzac” is so important in Australia and New Zealand’s history, it’s protected by law. This means businesses and companies cannot use the word “Anzac” for marketing unless they have permission, and even then, there are strict rules. For example, if you sell Anzac biscuits, they must follow the traditional recipe and cannot be called “cookies”—only “biscuits.”
This protection ensures that the word “Anzac” continues to represent the courage and sacrifices of soldiers, rather than being used carelessly.
A Delicious Reminder of History
The Anzac biscuit is a unique part of Australian and New Zealand culture. It connects people to the past and helps keep the memory of the Anzac soldiers alive. Each bite carries a story of resilience, love, and the strength of communities during tough times.
Today, making or eating Anzac biscuits is not just about enjoying a tasty treat—it’s a way to honor history and celebrate the bond between Australia and New Zealand. Whether you prefer them chewy or crunchy, the Anzac biscuit will always remain a comforting symbol of the past and a reminder of the bravery of those who served.
So next time you bake or eat an Anzac biscuit, remember the incredible story behind it. It’s more than just a biscuit—it’s a piece of history.
