Traditional Irish Soda Bread
This traditional Irish soda bread is a simple no-yeast bread made with just four basic ingredients. Golden and rustic on the outside with a soft, tender crumb inside, this quick bread is ready in about 30 minutes and perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or cozy homemade meals year-round.
- Prep Time: 10 MINS
- Cook Time: 25-30 MINS
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 1 LOAF 1x
- Category: BREAD | BAKING
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: IRISH INSPIRED
Ingredients
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4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 ¾ cups buttermilk
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Vegetable oil, for brushing baking sheet
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly brush a baking sheet with vegetable oil.
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In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking soda.
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Make a well in the center and pour in most of the buttermilk. Mix gently with a wooden spoon, then use your hands to bring the dough together. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Add remaining buttermilk only if needed.
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Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly and lightly. Shape into an 8-inch round loaf.
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Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross into the top.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
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Do not over-knead the dough or the bread may become tough.
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If you don’t have buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to 1 ¾ cups milk and let sit 5 minutes.
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Best enjoyed the day it’s baked.