Nothing beats the smell of fresh bread baking over glowing campfire coals, and for generations of scouts, damper twists have been an absolute camping staple.

At our recent scoutfest day this was thoroughly enjoyed by all the youth from Moe, Newborough, Trafalgar, Warragul & Drouin!

Whether you’re heading out to a local campsite or setting up camp in your own backyard, damper on a stick is one of the easiest, most fun, and most satisfying outdoor cooking activities for kids and adults alike.

What is a Damper Twist?

Traditional Australian damper is a quick bread made without yeast, historically baked directly in the ashes of a campfire. Damper twists take that classic bush-cooking heritage and put a fun, interactive spin on it: each person wraps a strip of dough around a clean green stick and cooks it directly over the campfire coals.

Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine (optional)
• Approx. 1 cup milk or water

Equipment:

• Clean, thick green wooden sticks or metal skewers
• A mixing bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Step 1: Mix the Dough — Combine the self-raising flour and salt in a bowl. Add your milk or water and stir until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead gently for 30 seconds.
• Step 2: Shape and Wrap — Divide the dough into portions, roll into long ropes, and spiral securely around the end of your clean green stick.
• Step 3: Cook Over Coals — Cook over hot glowing embers (not flames!), turning slowly for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding.
• Step 4: Serve — Slide off the stick and enjoy with butter, jam, golden syrup, or Vegemite!