Description
This easy Irish soda bread recipe uses baking soda as a leavening agent instead of yeast, resulting in a quick, delicious, and comforting loaf with a crusty exterior and soft interior. It’s perfect for beginners and can be customized with add-ins.
Ingredients
- 4 cups All-purpose Flour
- 1.5 cups Buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1 cup Dried Fruits or Raisins (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon Herbs or Garlic Powder (Optional)
- 1 cup Whole Wheat Flour (Optional substitute for all-purpose)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C/400°F.
- Combine flour, salt, and baking soda in a large mixing bowl. Create a well in the center.
- Pour in the buttermilk and stir gently until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead just until it holds together. Avoid overmixing.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a lined baking tray.
- Score a deep cross into the top of the loaf with a serrated knife.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool the bread on a wire rack before slicing.
- Serve warm with butter or jam.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the dough for a tender texture.
- Ensure buttermilk is at room temperature for optimal baking soda activation.
- Store bread in a bread box or tightly wrapped to maintain freshness for up to 3-4 days.
- Experiment with add-ins like dried fruits, herbs, or cheese for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g