Traditional Irish Soda Bread
A simple and hearty bread with a unique flavor and texture from buttermilk and baking soda, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda Use fresh for best rise
- 1 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1.75 cups full-fat buttermilk At room temperature
- 1 tbsp cold butter Optional, for added richness
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a cast-iron skillet or baking stone inside the oven to heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. If using butter, rub it into the flour until fully incorporated.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently from the center outward until a shaggy dough forms.
Shaping and Baking
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a round disk that is 1.5–2 inches thick. Do not knead the dough.
- Transfer the shaped dough to the hot skillet or baking sheet. Cut a deep 'X' across the top that extends to the edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes until the bread is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Notes
Serve warm with butter, jam, or cheese. Best eaten within a few days. Leftovers can be frozen.