From the outside, Aussie snacks may seem a little quirky, but with an open mind and an empty stomach, we have no doubt that you’ll fall in love with some of these iconic treats.
Make some room on your shopping list, here are the 10 Aussie snacks you need to try.
1. Vegemite
Tastes like: Marmite, but better
Dietaries: Vegan, kosher, halal, low FODMAP
Thick, salty and surprisingly nutritious—Vegemite is an iconic Aussie snack. Traditionally, it’s a spread for toast, sandwiches and crackers; but the adventurous eater might consider it a marinade for a roast beef or an addition to a pasta sauce.
Now listen up—do not take a spoonful straight from the jar and shove it into your mouth (like the celebs do on YouTube). Vegemite is best enjoyed spread onto a piece of buttery toast or pressed between your cracker of choice and a slice of cheese. If you have a Bakers Delight near you, a Cheesymite Scroll is the perfect study snack.
2. Milo
Tastes like: Chocolate and childhood
Dietaries: Contains dairy, soy and gluten
Milo is a beloved snack by many Aussies. It comes in several forms these days but is best known as a delicious malt barley powder you mix into milk. The instructions on the tin will tell you three heaped teaspoons are enough, but any veteran consumer will say another spoonful or two on top of that is the way to go.
3. Fairy Bread
Tastes like: A party
Dietaries: Adaptable to suit any diet
Fairy Bread is just as it sounds—it’s petite, airy and colourful. All you need is a loaf of bread, butter (or equivalent spread) and a packet of 100s and 1000s from the supermarket. It’s best served when cut into triangles. You’d typically find this at a child’s birthday party, but it makes for great Aussie barbecue (BBQ) food too.
4. Meat pies and sausage rolls
Tastes like: A savoury pastry with a mysterious but delicious filling
Dietaries: Traditionally contains meat, dairy and gluten
We included both snacks together on this list—where there is one, there most certainly is the other. Meat pies and sausage rolls are a staple food for many an Aussie. If you’re watching a game of footy or rugby, these will give you the energy to keep going until the bitter end.
5. Tim Tams
Tastes like: If chocolate and biscuits had a baby
Dietaries: Gluten-free available
One of the absolute classic Aussie snacks out there, you will see the humble Tim Tam pop up at all types of gatherings and events. It’s the perfect marriage of chocolate and biscuit, and pairs very well with a cup of tea. If you’re ready to take it to the next level—try a Tim Tam slam.
6. Anzac Biscuits
Tastes like: A caramelised cookie
Dietaries: Traditionally contains dairy and gluten
The Anzac (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps) biscuit has a long history dating back to the First World War. It is thought that wives and women’s groups sent them to soldiers abroad as the ingredients kept them from spoiling during naval transportation. The recipe is much the same today, making them the perfect Australian snack to send overseas.
7. Cheezels
Tastes like: American Cheetos or Canadian Cheezies
Dietaries: contains dairy
As far as Australian candy and snacks go, Cheezels have to be the most fun. They’re cheesy, crispy and famously fit over your fingers. Grab a handful and slip them on like rings to make a fashion statement while you munch away. Just remember to wash your hands once you’re finished—the cheese dust is epic.
8. Lamingtons
Tastes like: a bite-sized sponge cake
Dietaries: contains dairy and gluten
Have you ever heard of a cake so popular, there’s a special day for it each year? July 21st is National Lamington Day in Australia, when these popular Aussie snacks are celebrated as a culinary icon. They’re soft and spongey, rolled in chocolate and coconut, and sometimes stuffed with jam and cream. There’s a whole lot to love about these little treats.
9. Arnott’s Shapes
Tastes like: A crunchy, savoury biscuit
Dietaries: Contains gluten
Some prefer the tang of the Barbecue Shape, others like the umami balance of the Chicken Crimpy Shape—no matter who you talk to, every Aussie has a favourite flavour. They’re so Australian, there’s even meat pie and Vegemite flavours. Shapes are a great addition to a movie night with friends.
10. Chicken Salt
Tastes like: regular salt, but better
Dietaries: surprisingly, it’s vegetarian
Ok, technically this is a condiment rather than a snack, but if you haven’t tried chicken salt before, prepare for your life to be changed. Popularised back in the late 1970s, this vegetarian salt seasoning can be added to many dishes to really boost the flavour. Most popularly, it’s added to hot chips instead of regular salt—the pairing is heavenly.
Read more: The Best Cheap Eats in Australia
