TRADITIONAL IRISH SODA BREAD
(No-Yeast, Quick & Easy Homemade Bread)
KEY INFO:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8-10 slices
Difficulty: Easy (Perfect for beginners)
Dietary: Vegetarian (Vegan options available)
EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife
- Baking sheet or cast iron skillet
- Pastry cutter (or use your hands)
- Wire cooling rack
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons (7g) baking soda
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
- 2 tablespoons (30g) cold butter, cubed
- 1¾ cups (420ml) buttermilk
Optional:
• 1 egg (for richer texture)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup raisins or currants
METHOD:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Mix flour, baking soda, and salt in large bowl
- Cut cold butter into flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs
- Make a well in center and pour in buttermilk (and beaten egg if using)
- Mix until just combined – dough should be soft but not sticky
- Turn onto floured surface and shape into 8-inch round loaf
- Place on baking sheet, score top with deep X
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and bottom sounds hollow when tapped
CRUCIAL TIPS:
- Don’t overmix – this creates tough bread
- Fresh baking soda is essential
- Buttermilk substitute: 1¾ cups milk + 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Score deeply (¼ inch) to ensure even baking
STORAGE & VARIATIONS:
- Store in airtight container for 3-4 days
- Freeze up to 3 months
- Traditional add-ins: caraway seeds, whiskey-soaked raisins
- Try whole wheat flour blend for earthier flavor
Common Mistakes:
- Overworking dough
- Shallow scoring
- Opening oven during first 20 minutes
- Using old baking soda
This authentic Irish Soda Bread recipe gives you a rustic, crusty loaf with a tender center – perfect with butter and jam or alongside hearty stews.
