Description
This Amazingly Easy Irish Soda Bread is a classic, quick bread recipe that requires no yeast and relies on baking soda as a leavening agent. With simple ingredients like flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk, this bread comes together quickly and bakes into a golden, crusty loaf perfect for serving warm with butter or jam. Ideal for a comforting breakfast or alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prepare for baking the bread.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Add Buttermilk: Gradually pour in the buttermilk while stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky but should come together.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 30 seconds to smooth it out. Avoid over-kneading to keep the bread tender.
- Shape & Score: Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep “X” on the top of the loaf to help it bake evenly.
- Bake: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter or jam for a delicious treat.
Notes
- Use cold buttermilk to ensure the right texture for the dough.
- Do not over-knead the dough as it can make the bread dense.
- The “X” cut on top helps with even baking and adds a traditional look.
- Check the bread’s doneness by tapping the bottom for a hollow sound.
- Best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
