Description
Irish soda bread is a traditional Irish bread that uses baking soda as the leavening agent instead of yeast. This makes it much quicker to prepare and bake compared to other breads. The bread is dense, hearty, and has a slightly crumbly texture. It is usually made with flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour (or use all white flour for lighter texture)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
3 tbsp cold butter, cut into small cubes
¾ cup raisins (or currants for a traditional touch)
1 ¼ cups buttermilk (or make your own: 1 tbsp lemon juice + milk to 1¼ cups)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Optional:
½ tsp caraway seeds (for a hint of Irish flavor)
Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
Preheat oven:
Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a cast-iron skillet.
Mix dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add raisins:
Stir in raisins (and caraway seeds, if using).
Add wet ingredients:
In a small bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg together.
Pour into the dry mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms.
Shape the loaf:
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 6–8 times, just until it comes together.
Shape into a round loaf and place on prepared baking sheet.
Cut a deep “X” on top (helps it bake evenly).
Bake:
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
This Quick St. Patrick’s Day Irish Soda Bread with Raisins is a soft, slightly sweet bread perfect for holiday breakfasts or snacks! For extra flavor, try adding a touch of cinnamon, orange zest, or serving it warm with butter and jam.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
Keywords: Irish Soda Bread with Raisins