A rustic, golden-crusted Irish soda bread with a soft and tender crumb, this traditional recipe is a staple of Irish cuisine. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it requires no yeast, making it quick and easy to prepare. Best enjoyed warm with butter and jam, this classic bread is perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Yeast Required – Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients.
- Authentic Irish Flavor – A traditional recipe that captures the heart of Irish baking.
- Crispy Crust, Soft Interior – Perfectly balanced texture with a tender crumb.
- Versatile – Enjoy it with sweet or savory toppings.
- Great for Beginners – Simple steps make it an excellent choice for first-time bread bakers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Buttermilk
- Unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly flour a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually pour in the buttermilk, stirring with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead for 1–2 minutes, just until it comes together. Avoid over-kneading.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross on top of the dough to help it bake evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter or jam.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Variations
- Sweet Soda Bread – Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and a handful of raisins or currants for a mildly sweet version.
- Whole Wheat Version – Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
- Seeded Bread – Mix in caraway seeds or sesame seeds for added flavor.
- Cheesy Twist – Add ½ cup of shredded Irish cheddar for a savory touch.
- Herbed Soda Bread – Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic variation.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cooled soda bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm slices in a toaster, oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes, or microwave for 20 seconds.
FAQs
What makes Irish soda bread different from regular bread?
Unlike yeast bread, Irish soda bread is leavened with baking soda and buttermilk, giving it a unique texture and slightly tangy flavor.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but you will need to add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 ¾ cups of milk and let it sit for 10 minutes to create a similar effect.
Why do you cut a cross on top of the dough?
Traditionally, the cross is cut to help the bread bake evenly and, according to folklore, to ward off evil spirits.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may be slightly different.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The crust should be golden brown, and the bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Should I knead the dough a lot?
No, over-kneading will make the bread tough. Gently knead just enough to bring the dough together.
Can I add dried fruit to the dough?
Yes, raisins or currants are commonly added to make a sweeter version of Irish soda bread.
What’s the best way to serve Irish soda bread?
It’s best served warm with butter, jam, or alongside soups and stews.
Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
Traditionally, soda bread is shaped into a round loaf, but you can use a loaf pan if you prefer a different shape.
Is Irish soda bread supposed to be dense?
Yes, it has a slightly dense but soft crumb due to the lack of yeast. The buttermilk helps create a tender texture.
Conclusion
Traditional Irish soda bread with buttermilk is a simple yet delicious recipe that embodies the essence of Irish baking. With its rustic charm, crispy crust, and tender interior, it is a perfect addition to any meal. Whether served with butter and jam for breakfast or alongside a hearty stew, this bread is a timeless favorite. Try this easy recipe and enjoy a taste of Ireland in your own kitchen.
