Ginger Crunch

Ginger crunch is a beloved New Zealand school-fair and lunchbox classic, with recipes appearing in community cookbooks for decades. It’s a simple idea: a gingery shortbread baked, then topped while still warm with a glossy lemon-ginger icing that sets firm.

The pleasure is all in the contrast — a crisp, buttery, spicy base against a chewy, sweet, intensely gingery topping. Cut into neat squares, it’s the perfect afternoon-tea treat with a cup of tea.

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