**This blog is reader supported, and some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases**
Imbolc and Candlemas mark the midpoint between the winter solstice and the vernal equinox, symbolizing the gradual return of longer days and the strengthening sun. The sun, a source of life and warmth, becomes a potent symbol during this time.
As we approach this magical crossroads, what better way to celebrate the return of the sun’s warmth than by creating a meaningful experience with our children?
Our Sun Symbolic Bannock is the perfect way to accomplish this!
This activity is also a part of the Waldorf-inspired Nourishing Seasonal Rhythm that we have created for our family. (Learn how you can create your own here and find more Candlemas and Imbolc celebrations here)
Our Sun Symbolic Bannock is so simple to make, and beautifully captures the essence of this special season.
Imbolc and Candlemas invite us to honor the awakening of the earth and the strengthening sun.
We can embrace this theme by making Sun Symbolic Oat Flour Bannock, an activity that not only engages the senses but also captures the spirit of the of these ancient holidays.
Bannock is a rustic skillet bread, almost scone-like in texture. You can eat it with butter, and/or honey or fruit spreads like jam, jelly, or apple butter. It’s also delicious when enjoyed alongside soup or stew!
Recipe: Sun Symbolic Oat Flour Bannock
Ingredients:
- 2 cups oat flour
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 3/4teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk milk (we are dairy-free, so we make a plant-based version by mixing unsweetened almond milk with 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and letting it sit for a few minutes. It works really well!
- Cooking oils like Avocado oil or Coconut oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium heat while you prepare the bannock. Make sure it’s not too hot so as not to burn the bannock before it has cooked through.
- In a large bowl, whisk together oat flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the buttermilk to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms, then knead a few times.
- On a floured surface, shape the dough into a round disc, approximately 1 inch thick.
- Generously oil the preheated cast iron skillet with a good cooking oil such as avocado or coconut oil, and cook the sun-shaped bannock until it’s golden brown and cooked well through, and then flip it. Cook the other side until it is golden brown. Our bannock takes about 10 minutes on each side to cook.
Savory Toppings:
- Whipped herb-infused butter: Combine softened plant-based butter or dairy butter with fresh chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
- Pesto and sun-dried tomatoes: Spread pesto on warm bannock and top with chopped sun-dried tomatoes for another savory variation.
Sweet Toppings:
- Honey and cinnamon: Drizzle warm bannock with honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a simple and sweet touch. My kids love it this way!
- Mixed berry compote: Create a berry compote with strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries to generously top your bannock.
Gather your little ones, let their hands shape the sun-inspired bannock, and revel in the joy of creating meaningful connections during this magical season. Embrace the warmth of the sun, both metaphorically and literally, as you share this delicious treat with loved ones.
May your Waldorf-inspired celebration of Imbolc or Candlemas be filled with light, laughter, and the simple warmth of family.
