No-Yeast Fried Bannock

No-Yeast Fried Bannock is a simple, traditional quick bread that is crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and made with basic pantry ingredients. Since it uses baking powder instead of yeast, there’s no waiting for dough to rise, making it perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or side dish.

Traditionally cooked in a skillet with a shallow layer of oil, bannock develops a beautiful golden crust while remaining tender and airy inside. Serve it with butter, jam, honey, maple syrup, or alongside soups, stews, and chili for a comforting homemade treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No yeast required
• Ready in about 30 minutes
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Crispy exterior and fluffy interior
• Perfect for sweet or savory toppings
• Beginner-friendly
• Great with breakfast, lunch, or dinner

What Is Bannock?

Bannock is a traditional bread enjoyed in various forms across many cultures. This quick version uses baking powder as the leavening agent, eliminating the need for yeast and long rise times.

The dough is mixed, shaped, and fried until golden brown, creating a hearty bread that’s delicious fresh from the skillet.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Rest Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time

30 minutes

Yield

8 servings

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 1¼ cups milk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil
• Vegetable oil for frying

Kitchen Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Paper towels

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Sugar (if using)

Mix well.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Add:

• Milk
• Melted butter

Stir until a soft dough forms.

If the dough seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time.

If too sticky, add a little flour.

Step 3: Knead Lightly

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

Knead gently for about 1 minute until smooth.

Do not overwork the dough.

Step 4: Rest the Dough

Allow the dough to rest for 5 minutes.

This helps relax the gluten and makes shaping easier.

Step 5: Shape the Bannock

Pat or roll the dough into a circle about ½ inch thick.

Cut into wedges or leave whole and cut after cooking.

Step 6: Heat the Oil

Pour about ½ inch of oil into a large skillet.

Heat over medium heat until the oil reaches:

350°F (175°C)

If you don’t have a thermometer, a small piece of dough should sizzle immediately when added.

Step 7: Fry

Carefully place the dough into the hot oil.

Cook for approximately:

• 3–4 minutes per side

until golden brown and cooked through.

Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Cook in batches if necessary.

Step 8: Drain

Transfer cooked bannock to a plate lined with paper towels.

Allow excess oil to drain.

Step 9: Serve

Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Perfect Fried Bannock

Don’t Overmix

Overworking the dough can make bannock tough.

Maintain Oil Temperature

Keep the oil around 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.

Use Fresh Baking Powder

Fresh baking powder ensures a light and fluffy texture.

Cook Thoroughly

The center should be fully cooked and not doughy.

Delicious Variations

Cinnamon Sugar Bannock

Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

Honey Butter Bannock

Serve warm with whipped honey butter.

Cheese Bannock

Mix 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese into the dough.

Herb Bannock

Add dried rosemary, thyme, or parsley.

Raisin Bannock

Mix in ½ cup raisins for a sweeter version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Butter
• Honey
• Maple syrup
• Jam
• Peanut butter
• Soup
• Chili
• Beef stew
• Fried eggs

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Refrigerator

Store for up to 5 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months.

Wrap tightly before freezing.

Reheating Instructions

Oven

Warm at 325°F (165°C) for 5–7 minutes.

Air Fryer

Heat at 320°F (160°C) for 2–3 minutes.

Microwave

Heat for 15–20 seconds.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 230
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg

Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour?

Yes. Replace up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Why Is My Bannock Dense?

Dense bannock is often caused by:

• Overmixing
• Too much flour
• Old baking powder

Can I Bake Instead of Fry?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes until golden.

Can I Make It Dairy-Free?

Absolutely. Replace milk with water or plant-based milk and use oil instead of butter.