Irish Soda Bread Recipe

Irish Soda Bread is a rustic, no-yeast bread made with basic pantry staples. It’s known for its hearty texture, crisp crust, and slightly tangy flavor from buttermilk. Traditionally served with butter or jam, it’s perfect alongside soups, stews, or enjoyed on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No yeast or rising time required

• Simple ingredients and quick preparation

• Great texture with a crunchy crust and soft interior

• Versatile – works well with sweet or savory additions

• A traditional recipe with timeless appeal

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Buttermilk

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

3. Gradually pour in the buttermilk, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft, sticky dough forms.

4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Gently knead just until the dough comes together, being careful not to overwork it.

5. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross into the top of the dough to help it bake evenly.

7. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1 loaf (approximately 8 slices)

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Baking Time: 30–35 minutes

• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Use half whole wheat flour for a denser, more wholesome version

• Add raisins or currants for a lightly sweet twist

• Mix in caraway seeds for a more traditional Irish flavor

• Add a spoonful of sugar or honey for mild sweetness

• Brush the top with buttermilk or melted butter for a softer crust

Storage/Reheating

• Store the cooled loaf wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days

• For longer storage, freeze slices or the whole loaf tightly wrapped for up to 3 months

• Reheat slices in a toaster or warm the loaf in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes

FAQs

Can I make my own buttermilk?

Yes. Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

Why is my dough so sticky?

Irish soda bread dough is naturally sticky. Lightly flour your hands and work surface to make handling easier without over-kneading.

Can I use self-rising flour?

It’s not recommended, as this recipe already includes baking soda and salt. The ratios may not align properly.

How do I know the bread is fully baked?

The crust should be golden brown, and the loaf should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I use a cast iron skillet to bake it?

Yes, a cast iron skillet works well and can help create a crisp bottom crust.

What should I serve with Irish soda bread?

Butter, jam, cheese, or alongside soups and stews are all excellent choices.

Can I make it gluten-free?

You can try a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may differ slightly from traditional soda bread.

Why do I need to cut a cross in the dough?

Scoring helps the bread bake evenly and prevents it from cracking in unpredictable places.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

It’s best to bake it immediately after mixing. Baking soda reacts quickly with the buttermilk, so the rise is best when baked right away.

Is this bread sweet?

Traditional Irish soda bread is not sweet, but you can add a small amount of sugar or fruit if you prefer a sweeter version.

Conclusion

Irish Soda Bread is a beautifully simple and satisfying bread that brings comfort and tradition to the table. With its quick preparation and rustic appeal, it’s a go-to recipe for any time you want homemade bread without the fuss of yeast or lengthy rising times. Serve it warm, toasted, or fresh – it’s always a classic.