Makes About 2 Dozen Biscuits (Cookies)

Prepare yourself for a wonderful taste of Christmas from the land down under, as The Cook and Kitchen Staff stop by Australia for a brief visit on the third leg of our whirlwind tour of holiday specialties from around the world.

To fully appreciate how the traditions of Australia have evolved, you need to know that you're visiting the world's sixth-largest country and the smallest continent, lying between the South Pacific and the Indian Ocean. Australia is often referred to as the "Land Down Under, " because it is entirely within the Southern Hemisphere.

The Australian flag bears a variety of symbols upon a field of deep blue. The five stars of the Southern Cross and another single star represent the five states and territories, while the "Union Jack" adorns the top third of the flag. Today's recipe – "Anzac" – is named for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, where the biscuits became a familiar menu item as first prepared by early European settlers in Australia.

Pre-heat oven to 350-F degrees.

In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the butter and maple syrup with a hand-held electric mixer.

Add flour, baking powder, rolled oats, coconut, and sugar; mix well. Roll the dough into 2-inch balls and place well apart on a thoroughly greased baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until golden.

Cool on the baking sheet before removing to store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

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