by Diana Rattray
No yeast or proofing time makes Irish soda bread one of the easiest breads to prepare and bake. This recipe will make two small free-form loaves or a large skillet loaf. It’s a good alternative to biscuits, and it is much less fussy.
While this version contains currants, there are other flavors you might consider. For a more savory loaf, cut the sugar down to a tablespoon or two and add a few tablespoons of caraway seeds. To add to the flavor profile, add the finely grated zest of one orange. Raisins may be used to replace the currants, or use dried blueberries or cranberries in the bread.
Here’s a 1-loaf Irish soda bread recipe.
PrintClassic Irish Soda Bread
Irish soda bread is an easy bread to make for any occasion, and it’s the perfect side bread to serve with your St. Patrick’s Day meal.
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 7 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings 1x
- Category: Bread, St. Patrick’s Day
- Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients
- 4 cups flour (19 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dried currants
- 1/3 cup sugar (or more for a sweeter bread)
- 1 large egg
- 1 3/4 cup buttermilk (plus more for brushing the top)
- 6 tablespoons melted butter (cooled)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 F.
- Grease a large, seasoned cast iron skillet or grease and flour a large baking sheet.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, salt, and sugar. Add the currants and stir to blend.
- In another bowl, combine the egg and buttermilk; whisk to blend and then add the melted butter.
- Add the egg and buttermilk mixture to the dry mixture and stir until blended. Dump the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for a minute or two, or until it is firm and cohesive. Add extra flour to the dough if it is too sticky.
- Shape the dough into two round loaves or, if baking in a skillet, into one larger round loaf. Brush a bit of buttermilk the dough and sprinkle lightly with flour.
- With a sharp knife or razor blade, cut an “X” into the top of the loaf or loaves.
- Arrange on the baking sheet or in the skillet and then bake the bread in a preheated 375 F oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
