Anzac Slice
Introduction to Anzac Slice
The Anzac Slice is a sweet delicacy rooted in Australian and New Zealand history. The treat is inspired by the ever-popular Anzac biscuits, which were initially crafted during World War I. The name 'Anzac' stands for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, and both countries annually commemorate Anzac Day on April 25th to honor their courageous soldiers. The creation of Anzac biscuits stems from the need to find a nutritious and long-lasting snack to send to soldiers abroad. Over time, creative bakers have transformed the classic biscuit into a chewy and delicious slice that we enjoy today.
The beauty of the Anzac Slice lies in its simplicity, using basic ingredients that are typically found in most pantries. Moreover, it's an excellent way to introduce children to baking, as the process involves minimal steps and no complex techniques. Whether it's served as a comforting dessert, a school snack, or a tea-time treat, the Anzac Slice will always hold a place in hearts and kitchens around the world.
Ingredients
To make this delectable Anzac Slice, you need the following ingredients:
- Rolled oats - 1 cup
- All-purpose flour - 1 cup
- Brown sugar - 1 cup
- Desiccated coconut - 1 cup
- Unsalted butter - 125g
- Golden syrup - 2 tablespoons
- Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) - 1 teaspoon
- Boiling water - 2 tablespoons
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and desiccated coconut. Stir these dry ingredients together with a spoon or spatula until they are well mixed. This blend forms the base of your Anzac Slice batter.
Step 2: Melt the Wet Ingredients
In a small saucepan over low heat, situate the unsalted butter and allow it to melt gently. Add the golden syrup and stir until the mixture is smooth and fully integrated. This will give your slice a chewy texture and a rich caramel taste.
Step 3: Bake and Wait
Remove the saucepan from the heat and grab a small bowl to combine the boiling water with the baking soda. Be mindful as this liquid may froth up. Once thoroughly mixed, pour the bubbled liquid into the melted butter and golden syrup blend and stir it through. Now, fold this liquid mixture into the dry mixture from Step 1, ensuring everything is well coated.
Step 4: Form and Bake the Mixture
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and carefully pour the mixture into the tray. Press the mixture down evenly using the back of a spoon or a flat spatula—this is crucial to obtaining a consistent slice. Place the mixture in the preheated oven and set a cooking timer for 20 minutes, checking occasionally. If the slice turns golden brown before the timer ends, consider removing it a few minutes earlier.
Enjoying Your Anzac Slice
Once your Anzac Slice has baked to perfection, leave it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. The slice goes wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee and can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. If you're adventurous, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate on top before serving or mix some macadamia nuts for an added crunch. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, the Anzac Slice serves as both a tribute to historical resilience and a universally treasured treat.