Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I’ve tried several recipes for Irish soda bread, and this one is by far my favorite. It bakes up into such a beautiful loaf I can hardly believe it isn’t a yeast bread. And it’s so incredibly easy to make, especially if you’re impatient like me and don’t want to wait around for the dough to rise.
Like so many delicious bread recipe, this is the product of a time when fancy ingredients weren’t available or affordable, so it’s made with only the most basic ingredients.
Tips for Storing & Freezing
- Cool completely before storing, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap, a reusable bread bag, or an airtight container and store at room temperature.
- Slice before freezing if you want to thaw only a few servings at a time. Place parchment or wax paper between slices so they don’t stick.
- Wrap the whole loaf or slices tightly in plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Variations and Fun Twists
- Raisin: Stir in about one cup of raisins or currants and add a tablespoon or two of sugar to the dough. A pinch of cinnamon is optional.
- Orange Cranberry: Fold in a generous handful of dried cranberries along with a tablespoon of fresh orange zest.
- Cheddar & Herb: Mix in a cup of shredded sharp cheddar and a tablespoon of chopped fresh chives or parsley. Add a pinch of pepper for even more savory flavor.
If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to try my Dill White Cheddar Irish Soda Bread and my Easy Cranberry Orange Soda Bread.
Traditional Irish Soda Bread
Traditional Irish soda bread made with just a few simple ingredients.
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Servings: 1 loaf
Calories: 249kcal
Ingredients
- 4 cups flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda and salt. Gradually stir in the buttermilk until the dough comes together in a slightly sticky ball.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead gently a few times. Form the dough into a ball and then press into the prepared pan so that the dough resembles a large disk. The dough should reach the edges of the pan, but may spring back slightly.
- Cut an X into the dough with a sharp knife, about 1/4 of an inch deep. Cover the pan of dough with another round cake pan turned upside down.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, covered, then remove the top pan and bake uncovered for about 10 minutes more or until the crust is dark golden brown.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g | Calories: 249kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 682mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g
Keep scrolling for tips, ingredient substitutions, answers to frequently asked questions and more!
147 comments
Heidi
In the picture, it appears that at some point, you cut an X into the top of the dough – do you do this before all baking in the oven?
Mag O'Connor
It’s a cross not an X. Before baking, a cross is traditionally cut on the top of the soda bread loaf with a knife – often said to ward off the devil and to protect the household. But, since the republic of Ireland is mostly Catholic, the symbolism of the cross is blessing (crossing) the bread and giving thanks.
Kevin
That’s a myth made up by the Catholic church the cross or x whatever you prefer is to insure an even bake .Also you don’t need a cake tin just mould and put on a tray.ps try one teaspoon of b/soda.
Natalie Kaiser
It’s not necessarily a myth. Lots of Christian symbols and prayers were used as methods to ensure correct cook times before timers and temperature controlled ovens were necessary. Prayers or scriptures were often recited as a method of keeping time and even gauging temperature depending on how far you could get in a certain prayer, like a Hail Mary. Some of the reasons these worked were forgotten, and are now chalked up to superstition in spite of the scientific benefits that you have mentioned. It’s a little of both.
Paula McGuirk
It’s definitely a cross alright and it is a tradition in Ireland.
Heather
A nice tradition here in England too, and one I always like to do.
K. Carton
Yes… it is the sign of the cross. Irish blessing
Lea Jones
Yes it is a cross to bless the bread. IRISH tradition.
Linda
I agree. Should be 1 tsp baking soda otherwise there is a noticeable soda taste. Also I add a small handful of oatmeal to the batter.
Danelle M
Yes Heidi, I did, and I totally forgot to mention that in the directions. I’m going to fix it now. Thanks!
Kelly Miller
That is one gorgeous loaf of bread! I have a recipe for a sweet Irish Soda Bread, but I have this one pinned to try soon. Thanks!