25+ Mouthwatering Dutch Oven Damper Recipes You Need to Try

When it comes to rustic, comforting bread, few things can beat the simplicity and flavor of a well-made damper.

Traditionally cooked over an open fire or in a camp oven, damper is a versatile bread that has been enjoyed by generations of outdoor enthusiasts and home bakers alike.

Whether you’re camping under the stars, cooking up a cozy family dinner, or simply craving fresh-baked bread, the Dutch oven is your best friend for creating a perfectly golden, crusty damper.

In this blog, we’ll explore over 25 unique damper recipes, from savory herb-infused versions to sweet and indulgent twists.

No matter your preference, there’s a Dutch oven damper recipe here to satisfy your taste buds and elevate your bread-baking game.

So, grab your Dutch oven, and let’s dive into these delicious and easy recipes that will make your meals unforgettable.

25+ Mouthwatering Dutch Oven Damper Recipes You Need to Try

Dutch oven damper recipes are a wonderful way to embrace the joy of baking bread, whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting to experiment with homemade loaves.

The versatility of damper means there’s a recipe for every occasion, from hearty dinners to sweet snacks or breakfasts.

With just a few ingredients, you can create a fresh, flavorful loaf that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

These 25+ recipes are only the beginning of your damper journey—try them all and discover the wonderful flavors and textures that can be achieved with this simple yet satisfying bread.

Classic Australian Damper

Damper is a traditional Australian bread that was originally made by early settlers. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for cooking in a Dutch oven. The classic recipe consists of only a few ingredients and produces a hearty, rustic bread. With a crunchy golden crust and soft, fluffy interior, this bread is perfect for serving with soups, stews, or just with butter and jam.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup water (you may need a little more or less depending on consistency)
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional for extra richness)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Rub the butter into the flour mixture (if using) until it resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add the water and mix with your hands until a dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Shape the dough into a round loaf that fits into your Dutch oven.
5. Place the dough in a lightly floured Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake over medium heat for 30-40 minutes. You can also bake it in an oven at 375°F (190°C) if you prefer.
6. Check the damper after 30 minutes by tapping the top. If it sounds hollow, it’s done.

This classic Australian damper is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, yet the results are satisfying and delicious. The bread is perfect for a rustic meal, often enjoyed around the campfire with family or friends. Its simplicity makes it adaptable for various variations, such as adding herbs, cheese, or even dried fruit. No matter how you prepare it, this damper recipe will deliver a comforting, crusty bread every time.

Cheddar and Chive Damper

For those looking to add some flavor to their traditional damper, this cheddar and chive variation is an excellent choice. The sharpness of the cheddar combined with the fresh, earthy flavor of the chives takes the classic damper to the next level. It’s perfect for serving alongside a hearty stew or as a savory snack on its own.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• 1 cup milk (or water, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven by placing it over a medium heat or in an oven at 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar. Mix in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped chives.
3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk (or water) and melted butter. Stir gently until a dough forms, but don’t overmix.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, then shape it into a round loaf.
5. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven and cover with the lid. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, checking the bread at 30 minutes for a hollow sound when tapped.
6. If desired, brush the top of the damper with a little extra melted butter before serving.

This cheddar and chive damper adds a delightful twist to the traditional recipe with savory cheese and fragrant herbs. The richness of the cheddar blends perfectly with the fresh chives, making this damper an ideal accompaniment to soups, grilled meats, or even as a standalone snack. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate your damper, making it suitable for any occasion.

Sweet Raisin and Cinnamon Damper

For a sweet variation of damper, this raisin and cinnamon version offers a deliciously spiced bread that can be enjoyed with tea or as a dessert. The sweet aroma of cinnamon and the chewy texture of raisins make this damper a perfect treat for a cozy gathering or when you want a comforting snack to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven to medium heat or an oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, cinnamon, salt, and sugar.
3. Stir in the raisins to evenly distribute them throughout the dry ingredients.
4. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the milk and melted butter. Mix gently until the dough comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30-35 minutes. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped.
7. Allow the damper to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

This sweet raisin and cinnamon damper is a wonderful treat for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their bread. The spices and raisins offer a warming, comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s a simple, rustic way to make a satisfying dessert or a delightful addition to a casual brunch. This recipe shows how versatile damper can be, whether you prefer it savory or sweet.

Garlic and Herb Damper

Garlic and herb damper is a savory twist on the classic Australian recipe, offering the aromatic flavors of garlic and fresh herbs in every bite. This recipe is perfect for enhancing any meal, particularly hearty soups or stews, and can also be enjoyed as an appetizer or side dish. The flavors are subtle yet distinct, making it a versatile addition to your Dutch oven bread repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon dried mixed herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup water or milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven over medium heat or set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, sugar, garlic powder, and dried mixed herbs.
3. Stir in the fresh parsley.
4. Make a well in the center and add the water or milk along with the olive oil. Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms.
5. On a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a round loaf.
6. Transfer the dough to your preheated Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check if the bread is done by tapping it – it should sound hollow.
7. Let the damper cool for a few minutes before slicing.

The garlic and herb damper offers a savory and aromatic flavor profile that pairs beautifully with savory meals like roast meats, casseroles, or vegetable dishes. The garlic brings a warm, savory note while the herbs add depth, making this bread an ideal companion for your next family gathering or cozy dinner. It’s simple to make and incredibly delicious, perfect for those who prefer a flavorful twist on traditional bread.

Pumpkin and Feta Damper

For a slightly more indulgent damper, this pumpkin and feta version offers a rich and creamy texture, complemented by the tangy flavor of feta cheese. The natural sweetness of pumpkin combined with the savory feta makes this damper perfect for fall and winter meals, adding both color and flavor to your dining table.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup mashed pumpkin (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add the mashed pumpkin and crumble in the feta cheese. Mix well to combine.
4. Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in the milk and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven and cover with the lid. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
7. Let the bread rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Pumpkin and feta damper is a unique and flavorful bread that brings a rich and comforting taste to the table. The sweetness of the pumpkin pairs wonderfully with the salty tang of the feta cheese, creating a delicious balance. This bread is perfect for autumn gatherings, offering a flavorful addition to any meal. It’s a hearty, satisfying bread that’s sure to become a favorite for those who enjoy a savory, vegetable-infused option.

Whole Wheat and Honey Damper

For those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional damper, this whole wheat and honey version is perfect. The whole wheat flour provides extra fiber and nutrients, while the honey adds a natural sweetness to balance out the earthiness of the flour. This damper is perfect for breakfast, served with a dollop of butter, or as a side to a wholesome soup or stew.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup self-raising flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 cup milk or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven to medium heat or set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, self-raising flour, and salt.
3. Add the honey to the dry ingredients and mix well.
4. Create a well in the center and pour in the milk (or water) and olive oil. Mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30-40 minutes. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped.
7. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing.

The whole wheat and honey damper strikes a perfect balance between healthy and delicious. The whole wheat flour provides a nutty, hearty texture, while the honey adds just the right amount of sweetness to elevate the bread. This is an excellent choice for those looking for a more nutritious bread that doesn’t compromise on taste. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes and can easily be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Bacon and Onion Damper

This bacon and onion damper is a savory, hearty bread that’s perfect for meat lovers. The rich, smoky flavor of the bacon and the sweetness of caramelized onions make this damper ideal for pairing with stews, soups, or enjoying on its own with a bit of butter. It’s a great way to bring extra flavor to your traditional damper, turning it into a meal-worthy bread.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup caramelized onions
• 1 cup milk or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Stir in the chopped bacon and caramelized onions, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
4. Make a well in the center and add the milk (or water) and olive oil or melted butter. Mix gently until a dough forms, being careful not to overwork it.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check if the bread is done by tapping the top—it should sound hollow.
7. Allow the damper to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

The bacon and onion damper is a flavorful, savory bread that brings a rich depth of flavor to the table. The salty bacon and sweet, tender onions create a perfect harmony, making it a great addition to any hearty meal. This damper is perfect for a rustic dinner or picnic, offering a satisfying twist on the traditional recipe that will appeal to meat lovers and anyone looking for a more substantial bread.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Damper

This sun-dried tomato and olive damper combines Mediterranean flavors to create a vibrant and tangy bread that’s perfect for any occasion. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a deep, concentrated flavor, while the olives add a briny touch. Together, they make this damper a wonderful addition to antipasto platters, picnics, or served alongside pasta dishes and salads.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup green or black olives, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup milk or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the dry ingredients, mixing well.
4. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk (or water) and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Transfer the dough to the preheated Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by tapping the top, which should sound hollow when fully baked.
7. Let the damper rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

The sun-dried tomato and olive damper brings a Mediterranean flair to the traditional recipe. The burst of tangy flavor from the tomatoes and the salty olives makes each bite full of character, and the bread itself has a lovely, soft crumb with a crisp crust. This damper is a perfect pairing with Mediterranean dishes, as well as a delicious accompaniment to a light salad or soup. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a bit of sunshine in your meals, no matter the season.

Apple and Cinnamon Damper

For a sweet and warming twist on the classic damper, the apple and cinnamon version is a delightful choice. The natural sweetness of apples combined with the comforting spice of cinnamon creates a fragrant and cozy bread that’s perfect for dessert or as a snack with a hot drink. This version of damper is a great way to enjoy the flavors of autumn in a simple, rustic form.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 apple, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, cinnamon, salt, and sugar.
3. Stir in the chopped apple, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
4. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk and melted butter. Mix gently until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30-35 minutes. Tap the bread to check if it sounds hollow, indicating it’s done.
7. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.

This apple and cinnamon damper is a delightful variation that fills your kitchen with a sweet, inviting aroma. The softness of the apples adds moisture to the bread, while the cinnamon brings warmth and spice. This damper is perfect for dessert or a sweet snack, especially when paired with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s a great way to make damper a little sweeter and more comforting, and a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of fall all year long.

Rosemary and Sea Salt Damper

Rosemary and sea salt damper is a simple yet flavorful bread that brings an earthy aroma and a hint of saltiness to your meal. The fresh rosemary adds a fragrant herbal note, while the coarse sea salt enhances the overall taste. This rustic bread is perfect for pairing with roasted meats, cheese platters, or enjoying on its own with a drizzle of olive oil.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon sea salt flakes
• 1 cup milk or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Stir in the chopped rosemary, making sure it is evenly distributed.
4. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk (or water) and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, being careful not to overwork it.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30-35 minutes. The bread should sound hollow when tapped.
7. Before serving, sprinkle the top with sea salt flakes to enhance the flavor and add a touch of crunch.

The rosemary and sea salt damper offers a perfect balance of savory flavors with its aromatic rosemary and lightly salted crust. This bread complements a wide range of dishes, especially roasted meats and Mediterranean-inspired meals. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate the humble damper into a flavorful, aromatic bread that’s sure to impress your guests or make your meal even more special.

Chocolate Chip and Hazelnut Damper

For a sweet and indulgent version of damper, the chocolate chip and hazelnut variation offers a delightful combination of rich chocolate and nutty flavors. This is an ideal dessert bread or a treat for breakfast when paired with a hot drink. The crunchy hazelnuts and melty chocolate chips make each bite a little moment of joy.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
• 1 cup milk or water
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped hazelnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
4. Make a well in the center and add the milk and melted butter. Stir gently until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30-35 minutes. Tap the bread to check for doneness – it should sound hollow.
7. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.

The chocolate chip and hazelnut damper is a decadent, sweet treat that brings a comforting, indulgent twist to the traditional bread. The combination of creamy chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts makes it a delightful dessert or snack, especially when served with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s a perfect option for those who want to enjoy damper with a sweet flair, and it’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Coconut and Lime Damper

Coconut and lime damper is a tropical-inspired variation that combines the sweetness of coconut with the tangy brightness of lime. This refreshing bread is perfect for warm weather and is great for serving at brunches or picnics. The coconut provides a subtle richness, while the lime gives it a zesty twist, making it a unique and flavorful addition to your damper recipes.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• Zest of 1 lime
• 1 cup coconut milk (or regular milk)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Stir in the shredded coconut and lime zest, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
4. Create a well in the center and add the coconut milk and melted butter. Mix gently until the dough just comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30-35 minutes, checking for doneness by tapping the top. It should sound hollow.
7. Allow the damper to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

The coconut and lime damper is a refreshing and light variation of traditional damper, with a tropical twist that makes it stand out. The subtle sweetness of the coconut and the zesty lime bring brightness to the bread, making it a perfect accompaniment to seafood dishes, salads, or tropical-themed meals. It’s also a great option for breakfast or brunch, offering a delightful taste of summer year-round.

Cheddar and Chive Damper

Cheddar and chive damper brings a delightful savory flavor to the classic bread. The sharpness of the cheddar cheese pairs perfectly with the fresh, mild onion flavor of the chives. This damper is perfect for serving alongside hearty stews, soups, or as a snack with butter. Its cheesy richness and herbaceous touch will elevate any meal.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
• 1 cup milk or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped chives until evenly distributed.
4. Create a well in the center and pour in the milk and olive oil (or melted butter). Mix until the dough just comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30-35 minutes. Tap the top of the bread—it should sound hollow when done.
7. Let the damper cool slightly before slicing and serving.

The cheddar and chive damper combines the comforting richness of cheese with the fresh, delicate flavor of chives, making it a versatile bread for many occasions. This savory version of damper is perfect as a side dish or snack, and it pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, and even grilled meats. Its deliciously cheesy aroma and herby finish will be a hit at any meal.

Orange and Poppy Seed Damper

For a sweet and tangy twist on the traditional damper, the orange and poppy seed version brings vibrant citrus flavors and a delightful crunch. The bright zest of orange complements the subtle crunch of poppy seeds, making this bread ideal for breakfast or as a light dessert. It’s a refreshing, fragrant option that adds a touch of elegance to any meal.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Stir in the poppy seeds and orange zest.
4. Create a well in the center and pour in the orange juice and melted butter. Mix gently until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30-35 minutes. Tap the bread—when it sounds hollow, it’s ready.
7. Allow the damper to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Orange and poppy seed damper is a refreshing and flavorful twist on the classic recipe, with the zesty orange adding a vibrant note and the poppy seeds providing a unique texture. This damper is perfect for breakfast, especially when paired with butter or cream cheese. Its bright and slightly sweet flavor also makes it a lovely dessert bread, offering a delightful addition to any meal or snack.

Sweet Potato and Sage Damper

Sweet potato and sage damper is a hearty and flavorful bread that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the aromatic depth of sage. This variation is a great way to add some richness and savory flavor to your damper, and it pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, casseroles, or a simple soup. The soft crumb and fragrant sage make each bite comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato
• 1/4 cup fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1 cup milk or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Stir in the mashed sweet potato and chopped sage, making sure they are evenly mixed into the flour.
4. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk and olive oil (or melted butter). Mix until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30-35 minutes. The bread should sound hollow when tapped, indicating it’s done.
7. Let the damper rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Sweet potato and sage damper is a comforting and savory bread, ideal for cooler months or any meal where you want to add a bit of warmth and depth. The sweet potato lends a soft texture and slight sweetness, while the sage provides an earthy, aromatic flavor. It’s perfect served with a hearty stew or as a side to a Thanksgiving-style feast, offering a balance of flavor and heartiness that will satisfy your guests.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!