Description
This classic Irish Soda Bread is a simple, no-knead loaf made with baking soda as the leavening agent. It’s crusty on the outside, tender on the inside, and has a subtle tang from buttermilk. Delicious served warm with butter, jam, or alongside soup and stew.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar (for a slightly sweet loaf)
- Optional Add-ins: 1/2 cup raisins or currants, 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Lightly flour a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar if using.
- Add Buttermilk:
- Gradually add buttermilk and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t overmix.
- Shape Dough:
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently form into a round loaf.
- Place on baking sheet and cut a deep “X” on top with a sharp knife.
- Bake:
- Bake for 35–45 minutes or until golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- If you don’t have buttermilk, use 1¾ cups milk + 1½ tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar.
- Best eaten the same day, but can be wrapped and stored for up to 2 days.
- Toast leftovers for a delicious crunchy snack.
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
