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
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 3/4 cups buttermilk
1 large egg
1/2 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
