Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe yields a moist and flavorful Irish soda bread that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side to your favorite soups and stews. The combination of buttermilk and baking soda ensures a light texture, while the touch of sugar adds a subtle sweetness. Its simplicity and quick preparation make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ⅓ cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cups buttermilk
• ¼ cup butter, melted

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in the melted butter until the batter is smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
7. Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 slices
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: Incorporate raisins, currants, or caraway seeds for added flavor and texture.
• Sweetness: Increase the sugar to ½ cup for a sweeter bread.
• Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in a toaster or oven before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

2. Is it necessary to add sugar to Irish soda bread?

Traditional Irish soda bread is not sweetened, but adding sugar can enhance the flavor, especially if you plan to serve it with sweet toppings.

3. Can I make this bread without an egg?

Yes, you can omit the egg. The bread may be slightly less rich, but it will still be delicious.

4. How can I make the bread crustier?

For a crustier crust, place a pan of water on the lower rack of the oven while baking to create steam.

5. Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

If using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe, as self-rising flour already contains these ingredients.

6. How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Can I add herbs to the bread?

Yes, adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can give the bread a savory flavor.

8. Why is my bread dense?

Overmixing the batter can result in a dense texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

9. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be substituted for butter in this recipe.

10. Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately to help with structure.

Conclusion

This Irish soda bread recipe offers a simple yet flavorful bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed warm with butter or as a side to your favorite meal, this bread is sure to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire.

Irresistible Irish Soda Bread

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• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 slices
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Irresistible Irish Soda Bread recipe combines simple ingredients like flour, buttermilk, and baking soda to create a moist, tender loaf with a crispy crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or alongside soups and stews, it’s quick to make and full of comforting flavor. Make this easy Irish bread at home today with this simple recipe that yields a light, slightly sweet loaf.

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Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ⅓ cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cups buttermilk
• ¼ cup butter, melted

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
• In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and baking soda.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk.
• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
• Stir in the melted butter until the batter is smooth.
• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
• Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

• Add-ins: You can incorporate raisins, currants, or caraway seeds for added texture and flavor.
• Sweetness: For a sweeter bread, increase sugar to ½ cup.
• Flour substitution: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a nuttier taste.
• Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Irish