Introduction

ANZAC Day, celebrated on April 25th, honors the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who served during World War I. One of the most cherished recipes associated with this day is the Anzac Cake. This delightful cake is a testament to the resourcefulness of the soldiers' families, who created recipes using non-perishable ingredients that could withstand long journeys. With its rich flavors of coconut and oats, the Anzac Cake not only pays tribute to history but also makes for a delightful treat to enjoy any time of the year. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients

For the Anzac Cake:

• 1 cup (90g) rolled oats
• 1 cup (150g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup (100g) desiccated coconut
• 1 teaspoon (5g) baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup (80ml) golden syrup (or light corn syrup)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan with baking parchment.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, desiccated coconut, baking soda, and salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are well mixed.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and golden syrup together, stirring occasionally until fully melted and combined.
4. In another bowl, beat the eggs and milk together until well combined.
5. Pour the melted butter and golden syrup mixture into the dry ingredients, followed by the egg and milk mixture. Stir gently until all ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, slice the Anzac Cake and serve. Enjoy!

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the golden syrup?

Yes, you can use light corn syrup or honey as a substitute for golden syrup. However, the flavor might vary slightly.

2. How do I store the Anzac Cake?

Store the Anzac Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.

3. Can I add variations to the cake?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits such as raisins or apricots to the batter for added flavor and texture.

4. What can I serve with Anzac Cake?

The Anzac Cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert.

5. Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the rolled oats are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.