By Sandy Powers

Keeping with our theme of gifts from the kitchen for the holidays during these difficult economic times, I’ve included a special cookie with history called the Anzac cookie. Remember, a gift from the kitchen is personal, thoughtful, and affordable.

During World War One, a joint British Empire and French operation was mounted called the Gallipoli Campaign. The purpose was to secure a sea route to Russia through the Gallipoli peninsula of Turkey, one of the enemies of the Entente Powers, which consisted of the British Empire, France, Russia, Italy, and the United States. This was the first campaign undertaken by the joint military group known as The Australian and New Zealand Army Corps—ANZAC. It was a long and bloody campaign that lasted from April 1915, to January 1916. The story is told that the women back home in Australia and New Zealand wanted to send their loved ones "Soldiers’ Biscuits," (biscuit is the British version of the American cookie.) The transportation of food from home took up to two months to reach the soldiers. Concerned with spoilage, the women developed the Anzac Biscuit (cookie.) The ingredients for the cookie did not spoil. Eggs were omitted due to the scarcity of eggs during wartime. The recipe has weathered time. It is a delicious cookie with an unusual history that makes for a unique gift from the kitchen. As a special touch include a holiday card with the history of the Anzac Cookie.

Anzac Cookies

1 cup flour

1 cup rolled oats

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ cup white sugar

½ cup brown sugar

1 cup shredded coconut

½ cup butter, melted

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon boiling water

Combine dry ingredients in large bowl. Mix well. Mix melted butter, honey and boiling water together. Stir into dry ingredients and mix well. Keep mixing until well blended. Drop by tablespoon onto parchment lined cookie sheet. Dough is crumbly so you may need to shape mounds with fingers. Bake at 350 degrees about 12 minutes.