Discover the secrets to baking perfect Irish soda bread every time. Want to impress with a traditional loaf? Follow our guide for a foolproof recipe and tips.
Author:Emily Cookson
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:55 minutes
Yield:1 loaf
Category:Bread
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Irish
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
4 cups of all-purpose flour
½ cup of softened butter
4 tablespoons of white sugar
1 teaspoon of baking soda
1 tablespoon of baking powder
½ teaspoon of salt
1 cup of buttermilk
1 large egg
¼ cup of melted butter
¼ cup of buttermilk
Instructions
Gather your ingredients: You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk—your essentials for authentic Irish soda bread.
Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk.
Mix gently: Using your hands or a wooden spoon, gently bring the ingredients together to form a dough. Handle with care to avoid overmixing.
Shape the dough: Once cohesive, transfer it to a floured surface and shape into a round loaf, about 1½ inches thick.
Create the cross: Use a sharp knife to score a deep cross on top for that classic look and even baking.
Bake to perfection: Place on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Check for doneness: Tap the bottom of the loaf—the hollow sound indicates it’s baked through. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.