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Dorothy Thomas

Soda Bread Recipe

A quick, no-yeast bread with a rustic crust and tender crumb. Perfect for beginners, this traditional Irish soda bread requires minimal ingredients and bakes in under an hour.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 1 8
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: Irish
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups (250g) All-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups (190g) Whole wheat flour
  • 1 tsp Baking soda
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1.5 cups (360ml) Buttermilk (*or 1.5 cups milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice*)
  • 2 tbsp Butter (melted, optional for richness)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Baking sheet or cast-iron skillet
  • Sharp knife (for scoring)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or skillet.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk flours, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add wet ingredients: Make a well in the center, pour in buttermilk (and melted butter if using). Stir until just combined (do not overmix).
  4. Shape dough: Turn onto a floured surface, gently knead into a round loaf (~1.5" thick).
  5. Score: Place on the baking sheet. Cut a deep "X" on top with a knife (helps even baking).
  6. Bake: 35–40 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • Buttermilk substitute: Mix 1 tbsp lemon juice/vinegar + 1.5 cups milk; let sit 5 mins.
  • Storage: Best eaten fresh. Keep wrapped at room temp for 1–2 days or freeze for longer.
  • Variations: Add 1/2 cup raisins or seeds for extra flavor.