Easy Bannock Recipe

This Easy Bannock recipe is a quick, delicious take on a traditional Indigenous bread that’s pan-fried to golden perfection. Made with basic pantry staples and ready in just 15 minutes, it’s soft on the inside, crisp on the outside, and incredibly versatile. Serve it plain and buttery, or sprinkle it with cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bannock is beloved for its simplicity and comforting flavor. This version comes together in a single bowl with no yeast or rising time, making it ideal for a quick snack or side dish. You can enjoy it savory with soups and stews, or sweet with jam or cinnamon sugar. Whether you’re frying up a batch for breakfast or an afternoon treat, this bannock is fuss-free and absolutely satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Vegetable oil, for frying

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup whole milk

• ½ cup water

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for sweet version)

Directions

1. Pour vegetable oil into a 10 or 12-inch cast iron pan until it reaches about ½ inch up the sides. Heat over medium.

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

3. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk and water. Stir with a fork until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. With floured hands, shape it into an 8-inch disc.

5. Once the oil is hot (a small piece of dough should sizzle immediately), gently place the disc into the oil.

6. Fry for 4–5 minutes per side, flipping only once with tongs or two spatulas, until golden brown and puffed.

7. Remove and let rest on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

8. For a sweet version, mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over hot bread.

9. Slice into 8 wedges and serve warm with butter.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 slices.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Sweet Bannock: Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after frying.

• Savory Twist: Add chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.

• Mini Bannock Bites: Divide the dough into small rounds before frying for snack-size portions.

• Campfire-Ready: Form the dough into logs and wrap around sticks to cook over an open flame.

• Baked Bannock: Skip the frying and bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes for a lower-fat option.

Storage/Reheating

Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in a 300°F oven for a few minutes until heated through.
Freeze: Bannock is best fresh, but can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

FAQs

What is bannock?

Bannock is a simple, traditional quick bread that originated with Indigenous peoples and has since been adopted across many cultures.

Can I make bannock without milk?

Yes, you can substitute with water, plant-based milk, or evaporated milk.

Why is my dough too sticky?

Add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough is manageable but still soft.

Can I use self-rising flour instead?

Yes, but reduce or omit the baking powder and salt accordingly.

Is bannock the same as fry bread?

They’re similar, but fry bread often includes yeast and is typically made in individual rounds.

How do I know when the oil is ready?

Drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready to fry.

Can I bake this bannock instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

What should I serve with bannock?

It’s delicious with soups, stews, butter, jam, honey, or alongside breakfast eggs.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but note that texture may vary.

Why did my bannock come out dense?

Avoid overworking the dough, and make sure your baking powder is fresh for a lighter result.

Conclusion

This Easy Bannock recipe is a delicious, versatile bread that comes together fast with minimal ingredients. Whether you prefer it savory or sweet, it’s perfect for pairing with meals or enjoying on its own. Once you try it, this quick-fry flatbread will become a go-to comfort food in your kitchen.