Irish Soda Bread has been a staple in country kitchens since the 1800’s because it has a long shelf life, is quick and inexpensive to make and requires no rise time or extensive kneading. Traditionally it’s made with only four basic ingredients: white or wheat flour, bread soda (baking soda), buttermilk and salt, but various versions containing caraway seeds, raisins and/or currants are popular today. I love this simple and hearty bread smothered with butter or jam and it makes the best croutons. If you have no other bread recipe in your arsenal but one this is the one to have—none other comes together as fast with as few ingredients.
Irish Soda Bread Recipe
Author: Ashley
Ingredients
- 3⅔ cups all purpose or white whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 1 ¾ cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
- Prep a small baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl sift together flour, salt and baking soda then make a well in the center of the bowl.
- Pour in most of the buttermilk and gently toss the flour around the edges into the buttermilk pooled in the center and begin mixing it with your hands.
- Work the dough with your hands until the dough is soft and all the dry bits have been incorporated; if the dough feels too dry add the remaining buttermilk.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it lightly.
- Shape into an 8” ball and cut a cross into the top with a sharp serrated knife that has been dusted with flour (this prevents it from sticking to the dough as you cut into it). The cross is an Irish tradition that according to folklore helps the bread not only rise while baking but also wards off evil spirits and lets the fairies out.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before cutting.
- Serve & enjoy!
Make sure you check out my other easy recipes in my recipe index!
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Ashley is a happily married stay at home mom to a beautiful little girl and a little boy. Ashley and her husband come from a small town and enjoy the simple pleasures in life, like GREAT FOOD. They love to try out new recipes and experiment in the kitchen together, but also enjoy reading, painting and photography.
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