The ANZAC Slice is a tasty, chewy and wholesome version of the traditional ANZAC Biscuit. It’s baked on a tray then cut into squares or bars. It was perfect for long trips because it had no eggs and could be stored for a long time. This version, which uses the same ingredients (rolled oats with golden syrup, flour and coconut), has a chewy, soft texture, perfect for afternoon tea or lunchboxes.
Ingredients
You’ll need these ingredients to make a classic ANZAC pie:
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1 cup rolled Oats
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (firmly packaged)
- Unsalted Butter – 125g
- Golden Syrup, 2 Tablespoons
- Half a teaspoon of bicarbonate soda
- Use 2 tablespoons of hot water
Optional: For a special twist, add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts or dried fruits.
Instructions
1. Pre-heat and prepare the Tin Start by heating your oven to 160degC fan-forced (320degF), or 180degC fanless (350degF), if you are not using a fans oven. Line a 20cm by 30cm pan with baking paper and grease it. Make sure that the paper extends slightly over the sides. It will make it easier to remove the slices later.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients Combine the flour, rolled oatmeal, desiccated Coconut, and Brown Sugar in a large bowl. Mix all ingredients until they are evenly distributed. Brown sugar lumps can alter the final texture.
3. Melt Butter with Golden Syrup Melt butter and golden syrup in a small pan over low heat. Stir the mixture until it is completely combined and smooth. Heat until the chocolate is melted, but do not allow it to boil.
4. Mixture of Bicarbonate Soda and Hot Water While butter and syrup melt, dissolve bicarbonate soda in hot water. Remove the butter mixture from the heat once it is ready and add the bicarb water solution. This mixture will foam and bubble. This is normal, and it helps to create a chewy, light slice.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Pour the butter mixture immediately into the dry ingredients bowl. Mix everything with a wooden spatula or silicone spoon. Make sure the dry ingredients have been well coated and that the mixture has been evenly moistened.
6. Press the Mixture into the Tin Transfer your mixture to the prepared slice pan. Use the back of the spoon or your palm to press it down and create a flat surface. It is important to compact it well so that the slice will hold together once baked.
7. Bake for Golden Perfection Place your pan in the oven and bake it for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden. The edges of the cake will be slightly darker, crispier and remain soft. Allow the cake to cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a rack.
8. After cooling, remove the slice from the pan by lifting it out using the overhanging baking paper. Slice the bars or squares using a sharp, flat knife. Transfer to a cuttingboard. It can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature, though it doesn’t last that long.
Tips for Success
Do not overbake. As the slice cools, it will continue to firm up. It may turn out dry or hard if you bake it for too long.
Adjust sweetness. If you want a slice that is less sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar.
Make the recipe gluten-free. Replace plain flour with a baking mix that is gluten-free and make sure your oats have been certified gluten-free.
Add ins. Choc pecans, chocolate chips, dried cranberries or sunflower seeds are tasty alternatives to the traditional ingredients.
Why it Works
It’s easy to make, contains pantry staples and is nostalgic for many. This is a great recipe for bake sales, families and kids. It’s also more robust than delicate pastries or cakes, and it can be transported, true to its ANZAC origins. This slice tells a tale while satisfying sweet cravings.
You can make a delicious, golden, chewy ANZAC Slice in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a tea break or to pack into a lunch box. This classic slice is perfect for any occasion, whether you want to bake it as a tribute to tradition or simply enjoy a tasty treat.