- It turned out too hard.
- You overworked the dough. With Bannock, 'less is more': just bring it together, don't knead it like yeasted dough!
- The middle is raw.
- You shaped it too thick. The pan version needs to be flatter (approx. 1-1.5 cm) to cook through.
Bannock
Bannock is the survivor's bread. Originally from the Scottish Highlands, it found a true home in the Canadian wilderness. Since it requires no yeast or proving, it can be made by a campfire in a single pan. Its texture is somewhere between a scone and bread: dense, filling, but crumbly from the fat.
Ingredients
250
g
Plain flour
2
tsp
Baking powder
0.5
tsp
Salt
50
g
Butter or lard (cold)
150
ml
Water or milk
20
g
Honey or sugar (optional)
30
ml
Oil (if frying in pan)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Cast iron pan (or baking tray)
- Hand kneadable
Allergen Information
Cereals containing gluten
Milk
Instructions
1
✓
Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
Tip: The baking powder will be the raising agent; check its freshness (if you sprinkle it in water, it should fizz).
2
✓
Rub in the cold fat with your fingers until it resembles wet sand.
Tip: The fat coats the flour particles, inhibiting gluten formation, which makes it crumbly (shortening effect).
3
✓
Make a well in the centre, pour in the liquid (and honey, if using). Mix with quick movements until just combined.
Tip: Do not knead! The more rustic, the better.
4
✓
On a floured surface, pat out by hand into a disc approx. 2 cm thick.
Tip: No need for a rolling pin, the warmth and pressure of your hand is just enough.
5
✓
IN OVEN: Bake at 200°C for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
Tip: The even heat of the oven gives a 'drier', more biscuit-like result.
6
✓
IN PAN: Heat oil over medium heat. Cook the dough for 5-6 minutes per side. You can start under a lid so the steam helps the inside.
Tip: The pan version has an oilier, crispier crust (like fried dough).
7
✓
Break (don't cut) into pieces and eat with butter.
Tip: The layered structure of the dough is truly visible when broken.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 250 g Plain flour
- 2 tsp Baking powder
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 50 g Butter or lard (cold)
- 150 ml Water or milk
- 20 g Honey or sugar (optional)
- 30 ml Oil (if frying in pan)