Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread is so easy and delicious! It saves the day if you’ve got unexpected company or forgot you were supposed to bring something to the church potluck. Throwing together a couple loaves of bread in an hour can make your food go a lot further, and homemade bread always impresses, even if it’s super simple. 

Traditional Irish soda bread calls for caraway seeds and dried currants, but this recipe is totally customizable. I’ve added some variation suggestions below. 

This recipe makes two small loaves (don’t try to combine into one large loaf or it may not bake correctly), perfect for placing at each end of the table or gifting to your neighbors. 

Ingredients: 

4 cups flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

¾ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

2 cups buttermilk*

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment or grease it lightly.

In a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, add flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix to combine. 

Add the fruit and caraway seeds (or other variation ingredients), if using. With the mixer on low, add the buttermilk gradually and mix until just combined. Dough should be soft, not stiff. Be mindful not to overmix the dough. You should still see a couple of areas with dry flour.

Scoop the dough into two rounds and place on the prepared baking sheet. It’s okay if they look uneven or sloppy. It’s rustic! 

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 

*If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make your own. Simply measure 2 scant cups of milk and add 1-2 tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it curdle for a few minutes, then use as directed.

Traditional Variation

Add ½ cup dried currants, dried cranberries, or raisins, and 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon (to taste) of caraway seeds. If you can’t find caraway seeds at your market, substitute with anise or fennel seeds. 

Cheddar Chive Variation

For a more savory option, add 1 cup grated sharp cheddar (or Dubliner, if you want to be really on-the-nose) and 1-2 tablespoons freshly snipped chives (dried works, too). 

Chocolate Chip Variation

If you’ve got a sweet tooth and you’d like this to be a little more decadent, add 1 cup of chocolate chips. It’s absolutely delicious, like a giant scone for tea time!