Georgina Smith
CWA Anzac biscuit recipe
Recipe from the Country Women's Association
Anzac biscuits sit beside lamingtons and pavlova in the line-up of iconic Australian and New Zealand foods. Making them well is an art, so we consulted the experts - the Country Women’s Association.
Emma de Courcy-Ireland, the president of the CWA North Adelaide and Bowden branch, generously shared her family recipe with Adelaide Living.
Anzac biscuits are steeped in the history of World War I and the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. The biscuits emerged as a favourite for loved ones and women’s groups to send to the ANZAC soldiers at Gallipoli. The omission of eggs was in part because of rationing but it also helped the biscuits keep for the long voyage.
This recipe comes from Emma’s grandmother, Marie Manser, a former CWA member who followed this recipe when baking for the troops – although, she said, coconut is a modern addition.
Next time you bite into that crunchy golden biscuit, take a moment to reflect on the history of the ANZACs and take part in an event to commemorate April 25.
Anzac Biscuit Recipe
Makes approximately 35 pieces.
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup plain flour (sifted)
- 1 cup white sugar (half cup white and half cup brown will give a good snap if that is desired)
- 3/4 cup desiccated coconut
- 125 g butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- 1 tablespoon boiling water
- Pre-heat oven to 160 degrees celcius and line trays with baking paper.
- In a bowl mix together the dry ingredients - rolled oats, flour, sugar and coconut.
- Into a saucepan, place the butter, golden syrup, bicarb soda and water. Stir and heat to boiling point.
- Add the melted ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Roll tablespoon sized balls (32g if you want to be specific) in your hands and place on lined baking trays.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes until light golden. Allow to cool on tray.
About the CWA
The SA Country Women’s Association are a group of women from all walks and stages of life, who share the values of ‘Sharing and Caring with Action’. They regularly organise and participate in community fairs and activities and fund-raise by selling craft and food items.
The North Adelaide and Bowden Branch of the SACWA meetings are held at 6 pm on the First Tuesday of the month at the North Adelaide Community Centre, Tynte St, North Adelaide. You can find more information about the SACWA, including where to find a Branch near you, on their website.
