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Soda Bread Recipe

Soda Bread Recipe


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4.8 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Irish Soda Bread brings rustic charm straight from emerald landscapes to kitchen tables. Wholesome ingredients blend into a simple yet hearty loaf that connects generations with warm, comforting slices perfect for sharing.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) buttermilk

Leavening and Seasoning:

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare oven at 450°F, positioning rack centrally for optimal heat distribution.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blend dry ingredients, ensuring even mixture.
  3. Form a central depression in the dry ingredient mixture, creating a natural reservoir for buttermilk.
  4. Gradually incorporate buttermilk into the dry ingredients, using a fork to merge components until a thick, cohesive batter develops.
  5. Transition from fork to hands, gently transforming batter into a soft dough, carefully integrating remaining flour without excessive manipulation.
  6. Transfer dough to a floured surface, delicately shaping into a compact round approximately 6 inches wide and 1½ inches thick.
  7. Carefully place dough into a preheated cast-iron pan or Dutch oven, preparing for baking.
  8. Utilize a sharp knife to carve a distinctive cross pattern across the dough’s surface, allowing steam escape and promoting even baking.
  9. Initiate baking at 450°F for 10 minutes, then reduce temperature to 400°F, continuing baking for an additional 20 minutes.
  10. Confirm doneness by observing a deep golden exterior and firm internal texture.
  11. Remove from oven and transfer to a cooling rack, allowing bread to rest and stabilize before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly sourced buttermilk for the most authentic and rich flavor profile in your soda bread.
  • Minimal handling of the dough ensures a tender, light texture without developing tough gluten strands.
  • Scoring a deep cross on top helps steam escape and promotes even baking, creating that classic Irish bread appearance.
  • For gluten-free variations, substitute all-purpose flour with a blend of gluten-free flour mix and add xanthan gum to improve texture and binding.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Irish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 2 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg