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Traditional Irish Soda Bread

This traditional Irish soda bread is a simple yet flavorful, quick bread that requires no yeast or rising time. With its golden crust and tender crumb, it's the perfect accompaniment to a hearty meal —especially on St. Patrick’s Day. Pair it with corned beef, cabbage, or a hearty stew. While American versions often include sweeteners or mix-ins, the classic Irish recipe remains true to its roots with a simple, straightforward flavor profile. Enjoy it warm with a generous slathering of butter. 

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
55 mins
Servings: 8
Calories: 210 kcal
Course: Bread
Cuisine: Irish

Ingredients

  • 400 g all-purpose flour
  • 1-½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • ¾ teaspoon baking soda
  • 354 to 500 ml (1-½ to 2 cups) Buttermilk add more if needed,1 tablespoon at a time

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking soda. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
  3. Add the Buttermilk: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Gently stir from the center outward until the dough comes together. If needed, add a bit more buttermilk. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  4. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently shape it into a round about 1 ½ inches thick without kneading.
  5. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place the shaped dough onto a floured baking sheet.
  6. Score the Dough: Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross into the top of the loaf, extending it to the edges. This helps the bread bake evenly. Prick each section lightly to allow steam to escape.
  7. Bake the Bread: Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes. The bread should have a deep golden-brown crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  8. Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with a generous spread of butter.

Notes

  • How to Store
  • How to Store
  • Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • How to freeze
  • How to freeze
  • The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Once completely cooled, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. To reheat, microwave until heated through or wrap the bread in aluminum foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot.
  • The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Once completely cooled, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. To reheat, microwave until heated through or wrap the bread in aluminum foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot.
  • Buttermilk Substitution: If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 4 teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
  • Buttermilk Substitution: If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 4 teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
  • If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 4 teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for