Damper

Learn how to make traditional Australian damper with this easy recipe. Combining just four ingredients—self-raising flour, salt, butter, and water—this simple, rustic bread is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a warm, homemade loaf, ideal for pairing with your favorite spreads or stews. Ready in no time, it's a must-try!

  • 05 Apr 2025
  • Cook time 30 min
  • Prep time 10 min
  • 4 Servings
  • 4 Ingredients

Damper

Damper is a traditional Australian soda bread, historically made by swagmen, drovers, and other travelers who traversed the Outback. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s a quick and easy recipe that creates a delicious, dense bread perfect for pairing with stews or enjoying with a spread of butter and jam.

Ingredients:

3 cups self-raising flour
450g
1 dash salt
1g
1/3 cup butter
70g
1 cup water
250g

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of self-raising flour and a dash of salt.
3. Incorporate the Butter:
Add the 1/3 cup of chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This helps create a flaky texture in the final product.
4. Add the Water:
Gradually add 1 cup of water to the flour and butter mixture. It’s best to start with about three-quarters of the water and mix gently. Continue adding the remaining water a little at a time just until the dough comes together. You might not need all the water, or you might need a little more depending on the humidity and flour you’re using. Aim for a soft, slightly sticky dough.
5. Form the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times (about 4-5 times) until it forms a smooth ball. Be careful not to over-knead, as this can make the damper tough.
6. Shape the Damper:
Shape the dough into a round loaf, about 20cm (8 inches) in diameter. Place it on a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Score the Top:
Using a sharp knife, score a cross on the top of the dough. This helps the damper bake evenly and creates a beautiful finish.
8. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the damper is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Serve:
Remove the damper from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 5-10 minutes. Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.

Tips:

- Ensure your butter is cold before cutting it into the flour; this helps to create a better texture.

- Don't overwork the dough; mix until just combined to avoid a tough damper.

- For a richer flavor, you can add a bit of sugar or a dash of milk to the mixture.

- If you want a crustier exterior, bake the damper at a higher temperature for the first 10 minutes, then lower it for the remaining baking time.

- Experiment with adding herbs, cheese, or dried fruits to give your damper an extra twist.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, damper is an accessible recipe for all levels of baker. Whether you stick to the traditional method or get creative with your additions, making damper is a great way to enjoy a piece of Australian culinary history. Serve warm with your favorite toppings for a cozy and satisfying experience.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size190 grams
Energy
Calories 540kcal27%
Protein
Protein 14g9%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 80g24%
Fiber 3.38g9%
Sugar 0.41g0%
Fat
Fat 16g20%
Saturated 8g28%
Cholesterol 44mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 140ug15%
Choline 16mg3%
Vitamin B1 0.34mg28%
Vitamin B2 0.00mg0%
Vitamin B3 1.79mg11%
Vitamin B6 0.00mg0%
Vitamin B9 27ug7%
Vitamin B12 0.00ug0%
Vitamin C 0.00mg0%
Vitamin E 0.00mg0%
Vitamin K 1.61ug1%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 36mg3%
Copper, Cu 0.24mg27%
Iron, Fe 1.34mg12%
Magnesium, Mg 44mg10%
Phosphorus, P 150mg12%
Potassium, K 170mg5%
Selenium, Se 22ug41%
Sodium, Na 100mg7%
Zinc, Zn 1.31mg12%
Water
Water 80g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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