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Easy Traditional Irish Soda Bread

A rustic loaf of golden brown soda bread, with one thick slice cut and displayed on a wooden cutting board.

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Make authentic Irish Soda Bread quickly using this simple, no-yeast recipe. This loaf has a tender crumb and a satisfying crust, perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

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  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 3/4 cups buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour a baking sheet.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk.
  4. Mix the ingredients quickly with a wooden spoon or your hands until just combined into a soft, sticky dough. Do not overmix.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently shape it into a round loaf, about 1 1/2 inches thick.
  6. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Cut a deep cross into the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
  7. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  8. Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing.

Notes

  • For a traditional, slightly denser loaf, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
  • If you do not have buttermilk, mix 1 3/4 cups of whole milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
  • Serve warm with butter or alongside soup for a quick dinner bread side.

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