Damper is a traditional Australian bush bread that's easy to make and perfect for sharing around a campfire or enjoying with a cup of tea. It has a crisp, golden crust and a soft, fluffy interior. This recipe uses basic ingredients and is a great way to experience a taste of Australian heritage.
Recipe Summary
Preparation
10 min
Cooking
30 min
Servings
6
Difficulty
Easy
Ingredients
Instructions
1
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, sift the self-raising flour and salt. If you want a slightly sweeter damper, add the optional sugar at this stage.
3
Step 3
Add the butter (or margarine) to the dry ingredients and rub it in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
4
Step 4
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the milk (or water). Use a wooden spoon to mix until a soft, sticky dough forms.
5
Step 5
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a few minutes until it becomes smoother.
6
Step 6
Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it onto the prepared baking tray. Use a sharp knife to score a deep cross into the top of the damper. This helps it cook evenly.
7
Step 7
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the damper is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8
Step 8
Once baked, transfer the damper to a wire rack to cool slightly. It's best served warm.
9
Step 9
Enjoy your Australian Damper with butter, golden syrup, or your favorite spread.
Tips for this recipe
Here are some useful tips to perfectly prepare Damper and get the best results.
Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor
Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook
Monitor temperature during cooking to prevent burning
Frequently Asked Questions
This recipe has a Easy difficulty level, which means it's accessible for cooks of all levels.
The preparation time is 10 minutes and the cooking time is 30 minutes.
This recipe is designed for 6 servings.
Yes, many ingredients can be substituted with similar alternatives. We recommend checking the recipe variations.
Store the preparation in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Some preparations can be frozen for up to 3 months.