How to Make Australian Damper in 5 Minutes

Updated
2 min read

Australian damper –Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that brings a taste of the Australian outback right to your kitchen? Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Damper—an easy and traditional bread that’s perfect for campfires and home cooking alike! Whether you’re planning a cozy backyard gathering or just want to impress your dinner guests, this Damper recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Image of Damper

Here’s a lovely image of the Damper, showcasing its golden crust and fluffy insides, perfect for complementing your favorite meals or simply slathered with butter.

Damper: traditional Australian campfire bread

Ingredients for Damper

To make this delicious bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups milk (or enough to form a dough)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions to Bake Damper

Now, let’s get our hands a little messy and start creating this scrumptious Damper:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a campfire, prepare a bed of hot coals.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. If you’re using butter, rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.
  4. Gradually add milk to the mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. You may not need to use all the milk; just add enough to bring the dough together.
  5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 1-2 minutes until smooth. Be careful not to over-knead.
  6. Shape the dough into a round loaf, then place it on a greased baking tray or in a Dutch oven if you’re in the wilderness.
  7. For an authentic touch, score a deep cross on the top of the loaf with a sharp knife. This helps it bake evenly.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the bread has risen and turns a lovely golden brown. If you’re using a campfire, cover the Dutch oven with hot coals and let it cook for about 30 minutes, checking occasionally.
  9. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy fresh and hot!

There you have it—a beautifully rustic Damper that captures the essence of Australian cooking. Serve it warm with butter, jam, or as a side to your favorite main dishes. Happy baking!