Amazingly Easy Irish Soda Bread is a timeless classic that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With just a few simple pantry ingredients, this quick bread is baked to perfection with a golden crust and a soft, tender interior. There's no need for yeast, making it a simple and stress-free recipe to prepare. Whether I’m serving it with butter, jam, or even a hearty soup, this bread always hits the spot.
Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 ¾ cups buttermilk
1 large egg
½ cup raisins or currants (optional)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until a shaggy dough forms. If using, fold in the raisins or currants.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together—do not overwork it.
Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Using a sharp knife, score a deep "X" on top of the loaf to help it bake evenly.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter or jam.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep the bread fresh for longer, I can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, I simply slice and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, I can swap in whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour for a heartier, more rustic texture. Just keep in mind that whole wheat flour can make the bread a little denser.
Can I make this recipe without buttermilk?
If I don’t have buttermilk, I can substitute with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar. For 1 ¾ cups of buttermilk, I can use 1 ¾ cups of milk with 1 ½ tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can I add more or different mix-ins?
Absolutely! I love experimenting with different mix-ins like dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or even chocolate chips. Just be sure to fold them in gently so as not to overwork the dough.
How can I make the crust even crunchier?
To get an extra-crispy crust, I can place a small pan of water in the oven while baking. The steam helps the bread develop a crunchier texture.
Can I freeze Irish Soda Bread?
Yes, I can freeze the bread! I wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place it in a freezer bag. It will stay good for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, I can thaw it at room temperature or reheat it in the oven.
Conclusion
Making Irish Soda Bread is a quick and satisfying way to enjoy a classic treat. With its golden crust and soft, tender inside, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m serving it as a side to my favorite soups or enjoying it with a dollop of butter, this bread never disappoints. I love how simple it is to prepare and how delicious the results are. Give it a try next time you're in the mood for something homemade and comforting.
Recipe:
Amazingly Easy Irish Soda Bread
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Amazingly Easy Irish Soda Bread recipe delivers a golden, crispy crust with a soft and tender interior. It’s made with pantry staples like flour, buttermilk, and butter, requiring no yeast for a simple, quick preparation. Ideal for beginners, this delicious soda bread can be enjoyed warm with butter, jam, or served alongside soups. Perfect for any occasion, this bread bakes in under an hour, making it a convenient and comforting homemade treat.
Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 ¾ cups buttermilk
1 large egg
½ cup raisins or currants (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until a shaggy dough forms. If using, fold in the raisins or currants.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together—do not overwork it.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Using a sharp knife, score a deep "X" on top of the loaf to help it bake evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter or jam.
Notes
This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
For a crunchier crust, place a small pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
Substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour for a heartier texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Bread, Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 slices
- Calories: 220 kcal
