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Irish Soda Bread

🍞 Irish Soda Bread Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 3/4 cups buttermilk cold
  • Optional Add-ins:
  • 2 tbsp sugar for a lightly sweet bread
  • 2 tbsp butter cut into flour for richer flavor
  • 1/2 cup raisins or currants for a “spotted dog” variation
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds traditional flavor boost

Method
 

Preheat Oven:
  1. Heat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking soda. Add sugar if using.
Add Buttermilk:
  1. Make a well in the center and pour in buttermilk. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms (do not overmix).
Shape the Dough:
  1. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 4–5 times to bring together. Form into a round loaf about 8 inches across.
Score the Bread:
  1. Place loaf on prepared baking sheet. Cut a deep “X” across the top with a sharp knife (about 1/2 inch deep).
Bake:
  1. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake another 25–30 minutes until golden and loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool & Serve:
  1. Transfer to a wire rack. Cool at least 15 minutes before slicing. Best served warm with butter.

Notes

No Buttermilk? Mix 1 3/4 cups milk with 1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar, let sit 10 minutes before using.
Rustic Texture: The dough should be slightly sticky — don’t overwork it or bread will be tough.
Storage: Wrap tightly; keeps 2 days at room temperature. Freezes well for up to 2 months.
Serving Idea: Perfect alongside stews, soups, or with jam and tea.