Nicole's bush christmas damper
Nicole's Bush Christmas Damper is a traditional Australian bread, combining self-raising flour, butter, and milk for a quick, festive treat. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for holiday gatherings and pairs well with various toppings.
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
4 cups self-raising flour1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp baking soda
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp milk (1% fat)
Nicole's Bush Christmas Damper is a timeless Australian delight perfect for celebrating the festive season. This traditional bread is quick to make and pairs wonderfully with various toppings, making it a versatile addition to any holiday spread. Whether you're an experienced baker or new to cooking, this simple recipe will bring the warmth and spirit of an Aussie Christmas to your table.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). If you're cooking this in a campfire, prepare the fire and allow it to burn down until you have hot coals.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, salt, sugar, and baking soda. Mix these dry ingredients together until well combined.
- Cut the 2 tablespoons of butter into small pieces. Add these pieces to the dry ingredients.
- Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Make sure the butter is evenly distributed.
- Pour the tablespoon of milk over the flour mixture.
- Gradually add water, a little bit at a time, to the flour mixture. Use your hands to combine the ingredients until they form a dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky; add more flour if it is too sticky or more water if it is too dry.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1-2 minutes until it is smooth and holds together well. Do not over-knead; just enough to bring the dough together.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf approximately 20 cm (8 inches) in diameter.
- Use a sharp knife to make a criss-cross pattern on the top of the dough. This helps the damper cook evenly.
- Place the shaped dough onto a greased or lined baking sheet. If using a camp oven, place the dough into the camp oven and cover it with the lid.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the damper sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Cooking times may vary if using a campfire; check for doneness periodically.
- Once baked, remove the damper from the oven (or camp oven) and allow it to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy! Damper is traditionally sliced and served with butter, golden syrup, or jam.
Nicole's Bush Christmas Damper is a delightful and straightforward recipe that captures the essence of Australian holiday traditions. By following these tips and putting your twist on the recipe, you can create a delicious bread that's sure to impress your loved ones. Enjoy this festive treat and make your Christmas celebrations even more special.
Nicole's bush christmas damper FAQ:
The damper should be baked in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 30-40 minutes. It's ready when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
If you don't have self-raising flour, you can make a substitute by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt for each cup needed.
Store any leftover damper in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
The damper is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, the top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Yes, you can make the damper dairy-free by substituting the butter with a dairy-free alternative and using plant-based milk instead of cow's milk.
Tips:
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a tablespoon of your favorite herbs or spices to the dough.
- Ensure your butter is cold and cut into small cubes before incorporating it into the flour mixture for a better texture.
- Avoid over-mixing the dough to keep the damper light and fluffy.
- A dusting of flour on top before baking can add a rustic charm and help achieve a lovely crust.
- Serve warm with butter, golden syrup, or jam for an enhanced experience.
Nutrition per serving
6 ServingsCalories 400kcal
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 72g
Fiber 3.00g
Sugar 1.25g
Fat 6g
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