Print

Amazing Soda Bread: 40 Minute Magic Bread

soda bread

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this classic Irish soda bread easily. This quick bread requires no yeast and mixes up fast. It is perfect for beginners and creates a tender crumb with a crisp crust. Use this as a base for savory additions like cheese or herbs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1.5 cups buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
  4. Pour in the buttermilk all at once.
  5. Mix gently with a wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix; a shaggy dough is correct.
  6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
  7. Quickly shape the dough into a round loaf, about 2 inches high.
  8. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  9. Score a deep cross into the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
  10. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  11. Cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a crisper crust, you can brush the top lightly with buttermilk before baking.
  • If you prefer a sweeter bread, add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the dry ingredients.
  • If you do not have buttermilk, mix 1.5 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar into 1.5 cups of regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
  • For savory variations, knead in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (like chives or parsley) just before shaping the loaf.

Nutrition