Australian Damper Recipe

Self-raising flour: This flour contains baking powder and salt, making it ideal for quick bread recipes.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.

Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

Butter: Provides a tender texture and rich flavor to the bread.

When rubbing the butter into the flour mixture, use your fingertips rather than your whole hands. This helps to keep the butter cold, which is crucial for achieving the right texture. If the butter starts to melt, it can make the dough too sticky and difficult to work with.

• self-raising flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: Mix 3 cups of all-purpose flour with 4 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¾ teaspoon of salt to create a self-raising flour substitute.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and will provide a slightly different, but still pleasant, flavor.

• milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk will add a slight tanginess and help tenderize the dough, making it softer.

• cold, cubed butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in the same quantity and will provide a similar texture and moisture to the damper.

• Allow the damper to cool completely before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
• Wrap the cooled damper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
• Place the wrapped damper in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against air and moisture.
• Store the damper at room temperature if you plan to consume it within 2-3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• For longer storage, freeze the damper. Place the wrapped damper in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the damper at room temperature. For a freshly baked taste, reheat it in the oven at 180°c (350°f) for about 10 minutes.
• If you prefer individual servings, slice the damper before freezing. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can easily grab a slice or two without defrosting the entire loaf.
• To maintain the best texture and flavor, consume the frozen damper within 2-3 months.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Wrap the damper in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Place it on a baking tray and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Slice the damper into individual pieces.
  2. Place a damp paper towel over the slices to keep them moist.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds per slice, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Slice the damper and lightly butter each side.
  3. Place the slices in the skillet and heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed and slightly crispy.

• Toaster Method:

  1. Slice the damper into pieces that fit your toaster.
  2. Toast on a low setting to warm through without burning.
  3. Optionally, spread with butter or jam after toasting for added flavor.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Place a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water.
  2. Wrap the damper in parchment paper to prevent it from getting soggy.
  3. Steam for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

• Oven: Preheat to 200°C (390°F) to bake the damper until golden brown.

• Mixing bowl: Combine the flour and salt, and mix in the butter and milk to form the dough.

• Baking tray: Place the shaped dough on this tray for baking.

• Measuring cups: Measure out the self-raising flour and milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Measure the salt and butter precisely.

• Knife: Cube the cold butter before adding it to the flour mixture.

• Hands: Rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.

• Floured surface: Turn the dough onto this surface to shape it into a round loaf.

• Oven mitts: Safely handle the hot baking tray when removing it from the oven.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out flour, salt, milk, and butter before starting to streamline the process.

Use cold butter: Ensure the butter is cold and cubed beforehand to save time when incorporating it into the flour mixture.

Mix efficiently: Use your hands to quickly rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.

Gradual milk addition: Add milk gradually while mixing to form a soft dough without overworking it.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven before you begin mixing ingredients to save time.