Irish Buttermilk Soda Bread
A quick and easy traditional Irish soda bread made with buttermilk, resulting in a tender crumb and a slightly tangy flavor. Perfect for serving with butter, jam, or alongside a hearty meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4.25 cups All-purpose flour(spooned and leveled (about 531g))
- 3 tbsp Granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1 tsp Salt
- 5 tbsp Unsalted butter(cold and cubed)
- 1.75 cups Buttermilk(well shaken)
- 1 Large egg(optional, for richness)
- 1 cup Raisins or currants(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a baking sheet or a cast-iron skillet.
- 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- 3
Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender, fork, or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- 4
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and the egg (if using).
- 5
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until just combined and a soft dough forms. If using raisins, gently fold them in.
- 6
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead for about 30 seconds, just until it comes together into a ball. Shape into a round loaf, about 6 inches in diameter.
- 7
Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet or skillet. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep 'X' into the top of the loaf.
- 8
Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- 9
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
💡 Tip: Serve warm with butter or jam.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using cold butter is crucial for a tender crumb.
- ✓Buttermilk's acidity reacts with baking soda to create the rise.
- ✓Avoid over-kneading, as this can make the bread tough.
- ✓The 'X' cut on top is traditional and helps the bread expand.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add caraway seeds for a different flavor profile.
- Substitute whole wheat flour for some of the all-purpose flour for a heartier bread.
- For a sweeter bread, increase the sugar slightly.