There’s something special about a warm batch of ANZAC biscuits straight from the oven – golden edges, chewy centres, and that rich caramel flavour from golden syrup.
But if you’re coeliac, or eating gluten-free, it can feel like you’re missing out… or stuck with expensive complicated recipes.
This version changes that.
These gluten-free ANZAC biscuits are:
- Made with simple, affordable ingredients
- Just as chewy and delicious as the original
- Easy enough for a weeknight bake with the kids
And best of all? You probably already have most of what you need in your pantry.
There’s something special about a warm batch of ANZAC biscuits straight from the oven — golden edges, chewy centres, and that rich caramel flavour from golden syrup.
Why You’ll Love These Gluten-Free Anzac Biscuits
- ✔️ No fancy ingredients – just real pantry staples
- ✔️ Budget-friendly (perfect for families)
- ✔️ Customisable texture – chewy or crunchy
- ✔️ Tastes like the real deal
Ingredients
Makes 18 Biscuits
- 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup gluten-free plain flour (or rice flour)
- 125g butter
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- 2 tablespoons boiling water
⚠️ Important Note (Don’t Skip This)
To keep this recipe truly gluten-free, make sure you use:
👉 Certified gluten-free rolled oats
Regular oats can be contaminated with gluten during processing – this small swap makes all the difference.
Ingredient Cost
Estimated Ingredient Cost in Australia as at April 24, 2026 – $6.03 per batch, $0.34 per serve
| Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Cost |
| Gluten-free Certified Oats | 1 Cup (~90g) | $1.13 |
| Dessicated Coconut | 1 Cup (~80g) | $0.80 |
| Brown Sugar | 3/4 Cup (~150g) | $0.42 |
| Gluten-free Plain Flour | 1/2 Cup | $1.10 |
| Butter | 125g | $2.25 |
| Golden Syrup | 2 Tbsp | $0.28 |
| Bicarbonate of Soda | 1/2 Tsp | $0.05 |
| Boiling Water | 2 Tbsp | — |
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 160°C (fan-forced) and line a tray with baking paper. In a large bowl, mix together:
- gluten-free oats
- coconut
- brown sugar
- gluten-free flour
In a saucepan, gently melt the butter and golden syrup together. In a small cup, mix the bicarbonate of soda with boiling water, then stir it into the butter mixture. (It will foam — that’s normal!) Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well. Roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls and place on your tray. Flatten slightly. Bake for:
- 10–12 minutes for chewy biscuits
- 13–15 minutes for crunchy biscuits
Allow to cool on the tray (they firm up as they set).
Chewy vs Crunchy (Your Choice)
One of the best things about ANZAC biscuits is how easy it is to tweak the texture:
- Chewy lovers: Slightly underbake + thicker dough
- Crunchy fans: Bake longer + flatten more
You can even do both in one batch!
How to Make This Even Cheaper
This is where we keep things Saavy
- Use home brand gluten-free flour (big savings)
- Swap part of the flour for extra oats
- Buy oats in bulk when on special
- Use pantry staples – no specialty ingredients needed
These small tweaks can bring the cost per batch down significantly.
Easy Variations
Once you’ve made the base recipe, you can spin it into multiple versions:
- Chocolate Chip ANZACs – add a handful of choc chips
- ANZAC Slice – press into a tray and bake
- Dairy-Free Version – swap butter for margarine or coconut oil
Perfect if you want to create multiple posts (or just mix things up at home).
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
- They also freeze well for up to 2 months
A Little Tradition
ANZAC biscuits have a long history in Australian and New Zealand homes, originally made to send to soldiers because they kept well during travel.
This gluten-free version keeps that same spirit – simple, comforting, and made to share.
Save This For Later
If you tried these gluten-free ANZAC biscuits, save this recipe for later or share it with someone who needs a simple, budget-friendly bake