ANZAC Slice For Commemorative Baking
Introduction
ANZAC Slice is a beloved Australian and New Zealand treat, often baked to commemorate ANZAC Day (April 25th), a national day of remembrance. This day honors the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. The slice, known for its chewy texture and rich coconut and oat flavor, is easy to make and requires no eggs, reflecting wartime rationing. It’s a simple yet deeply meaningful bake, perfect for sharing and remembering.
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats 1 cup desiccated coconut 1 cup plain flour (all-purpose flour) 1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed 125g (1/2 cup) butter 2 tablespoons golden syrup (light corn syrup can be substituted) 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 tablespoons boiling water
Preparation Steps
Begin by preheating the oven to 300F (150C). Grease and line a rectangular baking pan (approximately 9×13 inches) with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, desiccated coconut, plain flour, and brown sugar. Ensure all dry ingredients are well mixed. This even distribution is key to a consistent texture in the finished slice. Set aside the dry mixture. Next, prepare the wet ingredients.
Cooking Instructions
1. In a saucepan, melt the butter and golden syrup over low heat. Stir until completely melted and smooth. 2. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the baking soda in the boiling water. The mixture will fizz. 3. Add the baking soda mixture to the melted butter and golden syrup. Stir quickly and continuously the mixture will foam up. 4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. 5. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to ensure a compact and uniform surface. 6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the slice is golden brown and firm to the touch. The edges should be slightly darker than the center. Keep a close eye on the slice to prevent burning. 7. Remove from the oven and let the slice cool completely in the pan before lifting it out using the parchment paper overhang. 8. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles. A sharp knife is recommended for clean cuts.
Serving Suggestions
ANZAC Slice is traditionally served as a snack or treat, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. It is delicious on its own, showcasing its signature chewy texture and sweet, nutty flavor. For a more decadent experience, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Consider offering a selection of ANZAC Slice variations, such as one with added nuts or dried fruit, to cater to different preferences. The slice can also be crumbled and used as a topping for desserts like parfaits or crumbles. It’s a versatile treat suitable for any occasion, but especially meaningful when shared during ANZAC Day commemorations.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Tip: Ensure the brown sugar is firmly packed when measuring for the best texture. Tip: Don’t overbake the slice. It should be golden brown, not dark brown, to avoid a hard texture. Common Mistake: Using granulated sugar instead of brown sugar will result in a different, less chewy texture. Common Mistake: Forgetting to line the baking pan will make it difficult to remove the slice without it breaking. Tip: If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of melted butter or golden syrup. Storage: Store ANZAC Slice in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Learning to bake ANZAC Slice is a wonderful way to connect with history and share a delicious treat. Its simple ingredients and straightforward method make it accessible to bakers of all levels, while its rich flavor and cultural significance make it a truly special bake. From its chewy texture to its comforting aroma, ANZAC Slice embodies warmth, tradition, and remembrance. Why not try baking ANZAC Slice at home and experience this classic recipe for yourself? Find more inspiring cooking guides and recipes at foodrecipestory.com.
