Irish Soda Bread
This traditional Irish soda bread is a quick, yeast-free loaf that relies on baking soda for its rise, resulting in a dense yet tender crumb. Its rustic, humble nature makes it a perfect companion for stews or a simple slab of salted butter.
- Prep time: 24 minutes
- Cook time: 29 minutes
- Total time: 53 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty: Medium
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 tablespoons cold cubed butter
- 1.75 cups buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Whisk flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda in a large bowl.
- Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined.
- Turn onto a floured surface and shape into a round loaf.
- Score a deep cross on the top of the loaf.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until golden brown and firm.
- Let cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Tips
- Do not overwork the dough, as this will make the bread tough.
- Use cold butter to ensure a flaky, biscuit-like interior texture.
- The cross on the top isn't just for tradition; it helps the thick dough bake evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1.75 cups of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Does this bread need to rise?
No, it is a quick bread and can be baked immediately after shaping.
How long does it stay fresh?
It is best eaten on the day it is made but will last up to 2 days wrapped well.