Irish Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread with a golden crust, slightly sweet flavor, and a soft interior, this Irish Soda Bread is simple yet satisfying. Baked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet, it pairs wonderfully with butter, jam, or a hearty stew. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, this bread is a must-have for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – No yeast or rising time required, making it a fast and simple bread to prepare.
• Deliciously Versatile – Enjoy it sweet with jam or savory alongside soups and stews.
• Rustic and Authentic – A true Irish classic that brings a taste of tradition to your kitchen.
• Minimal Ingredients – Made with pantry staples, so you can bake it anytime.
• Great Texture – Crispy on the outside, soft and slightly dense on the inside.

Ingredients

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

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 ¾ cups buttermilk
• ½ cup raisins or currants (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a cast-iron skillet or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and sugar.
3. Gradually add the buttermilk and melted butter, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. If using raisins or currants, gently fold them into the dough.

Shape the Bread:

5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead for about 1 minute until it comes together. Do not over-knead.
6. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it in the prepared skillet or on the baking sheet.
7. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep “X” on the top of the dough. This helps the bread bake evenly.

Bake the Bread:

8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Serve:

10. Enjoy warm with butter and jam, or serve with soups and stews.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories: 220 kcal per slice

Variations

• Savory Version – Skip the sugar and raisins, and add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more savory bread.
• Cheesy Twist – Fold in ½ cup of shredded Irish cheddar for a rich, cheesy flavor.
• Whole Wheat Option – Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bread.
• Nutty Addition – Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Dairy-Free Alternative – Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Toast slices in a toaster or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes.

FAQs

What makes Irish soda bread different from regular bread?

Irish soda bread uses baking soda as a leavening agent instead of yeast, making it quicker and easier to prepare.

Can I make this bread without a cast-iron skillet?

Yes, you can bake it on a baking sheet or in a cake pan if you don’t have a cast-iron skillet.

How do I know when the bread is done?

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

Why do I need to cut an “X” on top of the bread?

The “X” allows the bread to expand and bake evenly, preventing it from cracking in unpredictable ways.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may be slightly different.

What can I serve with Irish soda bread?

It pairs well with butter, jam, cheese, soups, stews, or even smoked salmon.

Can I add other dried fruits?

Yes, you can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or apricots for a different flavor.

How do I keep the bread from drying out?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, mix 1 ¾ cups of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to create a buttermilk substitute.

Can I make mini soda breads instead of one large loaf?

Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and bake for 20-25 minutes instead.

Conclusion

Irish Soda Bread is a classic, no-fuss bread that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. Whether you enjoy it sweet with raisins and jam or savory with cheese and herbs, this traditional recipe is a versatile and satisfying addition to any meal. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you want homemade bread with minimal effort!