Apricot Damper

🍑🥖 Apricot Damper: A Sweet Australian Delight 🇦🇺

What is Apricot Damper?
Apricot damper is a delicious Australian baked treat that combines the simplicity of traditional damper (a type of bush bread) with the sweetness of dried apricots. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for a snack or dessert.

History of Apricot Damper:
Damper itself has a long history in Australia, dating back to the early days of European settlement. It was originally made by swagmen and drovers (wanderers and stockmen) as a simple bread using basic ingredients like flour, water, and sometimes milk. Over time, variations of damper emerged, including sweet versions like Apricot Damper, which incorporates dried apricots and a touch of sugar.

Components of Apricot Damper:
To prepare Apricot Damper, you’ll need the following components:

• 2 cups self-raising flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
• A pinch of salt
• 1 cup milk (approximately)

Steps to Prepare Apricot Damper:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. Sift the Flour: In a large mixing bowl, sift the self-raising flour to ensure it’s free of lumps.

3. Add Sugar and Salt: Mix in the sugar and a pinch of salt. The sugar will give your damper its sweet flavor.

4. Add Chopped Apricots: Add the chopped dried apricots to the flour mixture. Make sure they are evenly distributed.

5. Pour in Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while stirring the mixture with a knife or a spatula. Keep adding milk until the dough comes together and is slightly sticky.

6. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a minute or two, just until it forms a smooth ball.

7. Shape the Damper: Shape the dough into a round, flat disc about 5cm (2 inches) thick.

8. Cut a Cross: Use a sharp knife to cut a cross into the top of the damper. This helps it cook evenly.

9. Bake: Place the damper on the prepared baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. Cool and Serve: Allow the Apricot Damper to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Slice it into wedges or squares and serve it warm with butter or jam.

Time Needed to Prepare Apricot Damper:
Preparing Apricot Damper takes approximately 40-45 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and baking time. It’s a relatively quick and simple treat to make, making it a popular choice for gatherings or a sweet afternoon snack in Australia.

Enjoy your Apricot Damper, mate! 🇦🇺🍑🥖

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apricot Damper:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: Around 250-300 calories per serving (varies based on serving size)
• Total Fat: 2-4 grams
• Saturated Fat: 0-1 gram
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: 0-5 milligrams
• Sodium: 150-300 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Sugars: 15-20 grams
• Protein: 5-7 grams

Health Information:

1. Moderate Calories: Apricot Damper is moderately calorie-dense, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as a treat rather than a regular part of your diet.

2. Low in Saturated Fat: This recipe typically contains minimal saturated fat, which is good for heart health.

3. Source of Carbohydrates: The primary source of energy in this treat is carbohydrates from the flour and sugar. Be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your carb intake.

4. Dietary Fiber: The dried apricots and flour provide some dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.

5. Sugar Content: Apricot Damper does contain sugar due to the added sugar and natural sugars in apricots. It’s sweet, so it’s important to enjoy it as an occasional treat.

6. Protein: While not a significant source of protein, there is some protein in this damper, which is important for various bodily functions.

7. Vitamins and Minerals: This recipe may provide small amounts of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins from the dried apricots and some calcium from the milk.

Remember, the exact nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. It’s always a good idea to check the nutrition label on the products you use and adjust your serving size accordingly to fit your dietary goals and needs. Enjoy Apricot Damper in moderation as part of a balanced diet.