Description
Irish Soda Bread is a traditional, rustic bread made with simple ingredients like flour, buttermilk, and a touch of sweetness from currants or raisins. This easy-to-make bread features a dense yet tender crumb and a slightly crisp crust, perfect for serving with stews, soups, or as a snack with butter. With no yeast required, it’s quick to prepare and ideal for any meal of the day. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Ireland in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 tablespoons butter, cubed and slightly softened
- 1 cup currants or raisins
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
Instructions
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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda.
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Cut in the butter: Add the cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to incorporate the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
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Add the currants or raisins: Stir the currants or raisins into the flour mixture.
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Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the lightly beaten egg and buttermilk.
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Form the dough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients. Stir until the dough just comes together. Do not overwork the dough.
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Shape the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
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Cut the top: Using a sharp knife, make a deep cross on the top of the dough to help it cook evenly.
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Bake the bread: Bake for 45-55 minutes, until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).
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Cool: Let the bread cool for 10-15 minutes on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.
Notes
- Add nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra flavor.
- Herb Soda Bread: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based milk and a flax egg to make the bread vegan-friendly.
- Citrus zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a refreshing touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
