Australian Damper "Out-Back" Bread
Australian Damper is a traditional bread with a crusty exterior and soft interior, perfect for outdoor cooking or hearty meals, with subtle buttery and yeasty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter and sugar until creamy; add egg and beat again.
- Add buttermilk alternately with flour, which has salt, cream of tartar, and baking soda mixed in.
- Turn out the dough on a well-floured board.
- Knead and shape into 2 pones.
- Place on well-greased baking pans.
- Brush tops with melted butter.
- Bake at 350°F until the tops are browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk made from whole milk instead of low-fat. If you don't have cream of tartar, use an equal amount of lemon juice or vinegar. Make sure to knead the dough gently to avoid overworking it, which can lead to a dense bread. For a sweet twist, you might add dried fruits or nuts to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, slathered with butter or your favorite jam for breakfast. It pairs beautifully with a hearty soup or chili for lunch or dinner. For a fun twist, try it alongside a Morning Milk Shake for a satisfying meal. You can also enjoy it with cheese slices for a savory snack.
Storage & Reheating
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 refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, wrap in foil and place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Australian Damper "Out-Back" Bread contains roughly 593 calories, with 16g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value) and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1736mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make damper without buttermilk?
Yes, if you don't have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will give you a similar acidity and moisture needed for the recipe.
How do I know when the damper is done baking?
The damper is done when it has risen and the tops are golden brown. You can also tap the bottom of the loaves; if it sounds hollow, it's a sign that the bread is fully baked. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary based on your oven.
Can I add herbs or spices to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor of the damper. You can mix in about 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs into the flour mixture before combining with wet ingredients. Spices like garlic powder or paprika can also be added for a unique twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).