Prince Edward Island Bannock
Prince Edward Island Bannock is a traditional Canadian bread with a flaky, biscuit-like texture and a subtly sweet flavor. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it pairs wonderfully with butter, jam, or savory toppings. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it ideal for family gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder.
- Add shortening and cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add milk, starting with 3/4 cup, and mix until a soft dough forms. Add more milk if needed to make the dough workable for rolling.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat or roll the dough into a thick rectangle or circle about 1 inch thick.
- Cut into biscuit-sized pieces or shapes as desired.
- Grease a baking pan and place the dough pieces inside.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier texture, try substituting half of the shortening with butter or using coconut oil. Make sure not to over-knead the dough; just a gentle touch is needed. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the milk. This bannock pairs beautifully with dishes like Grandma's Garlic Grits or savory stews.
Serving Suggestions
Bannock is versatile and can be served warm with butter, honey, or jam. It also complements hearty soups and stews or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh salad like For Goodness Sakes Salad. For a unique twist, try serving it with smoked salmon or as a base for mini sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bannock in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, wrap the bannock in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Prince Edward Island Bannock contains roughly 146 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1206mg per serving (52% 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 use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. To maintain a lighter texture, consider using a mix of both flours or adding a little extra baking powder.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can replace it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both options will add a different flavor profile, making the bannock rich and delicious.
How do I know when the bannock is done baking?
The bannock is done when it turns a golden brown color on top. You can also tap the bottom of the pieces; if they sound hollow, they are likely ready. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
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).