Description
A classic Irish Soda Bread golden, crusty, and tender inside, made without yeast using simple pantry staples. Perfect with butter and jam or alongside hearty soups and stews.
Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups buttermilk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional, for brushing top)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly flour a baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk.
4. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a sticky dough forms — do not overmix.
5. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead just enough to bring it together.
6. Shape into a round loaf about 8 inches wide and place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep cross (about 1/2 inch) on top of the dough.
8. Bake for 35–45 minutes until golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
10. Brush with melted butter if desired for extra flavor and shine.
Notes
For a slightly sweeter bread, add 2 tablespoons of sugar.
Add 1/2 cup raisins or currants for a traditional ‘Spotted Dog’ variation.
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 3/4 cups milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 10 minutes before using.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Irish soda bread, traditional bread, no yeast bread, easy homemade bread, St. Patrick's Day recipe