These biscuits got their name from the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC). During WW1 these homemade treats were dubbed "Anzac biscuits."
Originally designed without eggs so they wouldn't spoil, these were the ultimate "care package" food from home for soldiers. They were often baked at home by wives and mothers and sealed in tins to survive what was often a months long journey to reach soldiers who were surviving on hard tack and less than tasty army rations.
The recipe for these simple treats has survived over a century of history.
Because the name "Anzac" is protected by Australian law, you probably shouldn't call them "cookies"—they must be referred to, as the Australians do, as 'Anzac Biscuits' .
The biscuits go great with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea.