Traditional Bannock Bread

Name: Traditional Bannock Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting); 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed); 3/4 cup water (cold)

35 min 8 slices Easy

All Recipes

Traditional Bannock Bread

Discover the simplicity and delight of making traditional bannock bread, a staple of Indigenous cuisine, perfect for any meal.

Prep

10 min

Cook

25 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Bannock, also known as 'pain banique' in French, is a simple and hearty bread with a rich history, often associated with Canadian Indigenous peoples. This versatile bread has been a staple for its ease of preparation and adaptability to various cooking conditions, whether over an open fire or in a modern kitchen. Traditionally made with basic pantry ingredients, bannock is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. Its crisp exterior and soft, chewy interior make it an ideal accompaniment to soups, stews, or simply enjoyed warm with butter. Let's explore how to make this classic bread that captures the essence of simplicity and comfort.

Ingredients

Servings

Bannock Bread

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Pro tip: Ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined for even rising.

Incorporate butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Pro tip: Cold butter will create a flakier texture in the bread.

Add water

Gradually add the cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. The dough should be slightly sticky.

Pro tip: Add more water, a tablespoon at a time, if the dough is too dry.

Shape the dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Shape it into a round, about 1 inch thick.

Pro tip: Avoid over-kneading to keep the bread tender.

Bake the bannock

Place the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Pro tip: The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cool and serve

Allow the bannock to cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Pro tip: Serve warm for the best flavour and texture.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use cold butter for a flakier texture.</li><li>Do not over-knead the dough to keep it tender.</li><li>Try adding herbs or cheese for a savoury twist.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Bannock is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven or skillet. Pair it with hearty soups, stews, or serve alongside a traditional Canadian breakfast spread with eggs and bacon. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To revive the bread's freshness, gently toast slices before serving. Bannock can also be frozen for up to a month; simply thaw and warm before enjoying.