Mrs. Fields & iVillage 30th Anniversary Cookie Contest (682 photos)

Anzac Cookies

Ingredients:

1 stick of unsalted butter, 1 tbsp. honey, 1 tbsp. hot water, 1 teasp. baking powder, 1 c. quick cooking oats, 1 c. sugar, 1 c. finely grated coconut, 1 c. finely chopped walnuts.

Method: Melt butter in microwave (45 secs. on full) in medium mixing bowl. Stir in honey, water and baking powder. Add sugar, oats, coconut, flour and walnuts. Mix well. Place teaspoonsful on cookie sheets, about an inch apart. Flatten each with a fork. Bake in 325 degree oven for about 12 minutes, or until just browned. Let rest on cookie sheets for a minute, then remove to racks to cool.

I love this recipe because it is easily made and tasty. My children used to take it in their school lunches or we would have it for 'tea' when they came home from school. The recipe originated in New Zealand and was created for Anzac day when the end of World War II was declared for Australian and New Zealand troops who had been fighting in the Pacific. As both countries had been on rationing, the cookies were made from ingredients that were available. Our family originated in England. We have enjoyed travels to Australia and New Zealand, as well as having family members who were involved in the Pacific war, so I feel some kin-ship with the history of this recipe and enjoy making it for friends in the US.