Christmas Damper
A hearty, traditional Australian Christmas bread with a soft, fluffy texture and subtle flavors, perfect for festive gatherings and easy to prepare in ashes or oven.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the butter into the self-rising flour and salt until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Add the sugar and bicarbonate of soda, then gradually mix in the milk or water to form a medium or soft dough.
- Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface until smooth.
- Mould the dough into a Christmassy shape, such as a wreath or star.
- Bake in a hot oven or ashes for about 20 minutes until browned.
- Serve warm with butter, jam, honey, or golden syrup.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the milk with buttermilk or adding herbs like rosemary. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. To achieve a golden crust, brush the shaped dough with milk or melted butter before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with butter and your choice of jam, honey, or golden syrup for a delightful treat. This festive damper also pairs beautifully with hearty soups or stews, making it a perfect side for a cozy holiday meal. For a unique twist, try it alongside Poticia-Nut Bread for a varied flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover damper in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap it in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps maintain its soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Damper contains roughly 159 calories, with 3g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 503mg per serving (22% 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 this damper gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free alternative that includes baking powder. Ensure the other ingredients are gluten-free as well for a safe and delicious option.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can replace butter with margarine or a plant-based alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option. This will still give you a nice texture and flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.
How can I add flavor to the damper?
To enhance the flavor, consider mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins. These additions can make the damper even more festive and enjoyable during the holiday season.
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).