Save A rustic, quick bread with a tender crumb and lightly tangy flavor, perfect for serving warm with butter or jam.
This classic Irish soda bread recipe has been a family favorite for years. I love how fast it comes together and fills the house with an inviting aroma.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 4 cups (500 g)
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Granulated sugar (optional): 2 tablespoons
- Buttermilk, cold: 1 3/4 cups (420 ml)
- Raisins or currants (optional): 1/2 cup (75 g)
- Unsalted butter, melted (optional): 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly flour a cast iron skillet.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Step 3:
- If using, stir in raisins or currants.
- Step 4:
- Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk. Mix gently with a wooden spoon or your hand until the dough just comes together do not overmix.
- Step 5:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape into a round loaf about 1 1/2 inches thick.
- Step 6:
- Transfer to the prepared baking sheet or skillet. With a sharp knife cut a deep cross (X) on top of the loaf to help it bake evenly.
- Step 7:
- Brush with melted butter if desired for a richer crust.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 30 35 minutes or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Step 9:
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Save My family cherishes Sunday mornings when I bake this bread fresh and we enjoy it warm with homemade jam and butter around the breakfast table.
Optional Variations
Add raisins or currants for a sweet twist or brush with melted butter for a richer crust.
Storage Tips
Store leftover bread wrapped in a tea towel at room temperature for up to two days or slice and freeze for longer storage.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 210 calories with 1.5 grams of fat and 6 grams of protein, making it a wholesome option for any meal.
Save Enjoy the warm, tender crumb of this classic soda bread fresh from the oven; it is simplicity at its best.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes this bread rise without yeast?
Baking soda reacts with the acidity of buttermilk, causing the dough to rise quickly without the need for yeast.
- → Can I use a substitute for buttermilk?
Yes, mix milk with lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk’s acidity.
- → How do I get a classic cross on top?
Use a sharp knife to cut a deep 'X' on the dough's surface before baking to help it cook evenly.
- → Is it necessary to add sugar or raisins?
Both are optional; sugar adds slight sweetness and raisins or currants provide fruity notes if desired.
- → How should leftover bread be stored?
Store cooled bread wrapped at room temperature and toast leftovers to refresh the texture before eating.