Imagine pulling a golden, crusty loaf of bread from the oven with minimal effort and maximum flavor - that's the wonder of Irish Soda Bread! Unlike traditional yeasted breads that require hours of rising, this quick and simple recipe transforms basic pantry ingredients into a delectable, hearty loaf in less than an hour. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned home cook, this small batch Irish Soda Bread will revolutionize your bread-making experience and transport your taste buds straight to the rolling green hills of Ireland.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 1 small loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help create a nice crust on your soda bread.
- Gather all your ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 3/4 cup of buttermilk.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Use a whisk or a fork to mix them together thoroughly, ensuring that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Gradually pour in the buttermilk, using a wooden spoon or your hands to mix the ingredients together. Stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until it comes together. Shape the dough into a round loaf, about 1 to
- 5 inches thick.
- Transfer the shaped loaf to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, make a deep cross on the top of the loaf. This allows the bread to expand while baking and gives it a traditional look.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Once baked, remove the soda bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This will help maintain its texture.
- Serve the soda bread warm or at room temperature, preferably with butter or your favorite spread. Enjoy!
Tips
- Use fresh baking soda to ensure your bread rises properly and has the right texture.
- Don't overwork the dough - mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the bread tender.
- The deep cross on top isn't just traditional, it helps the bread cook evenly and expand beautifully.
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or caraway seeds to the dry ingredients.
- Buttermilk is key to the bread's tangy flavor and tender crumb, so use fresh buttermilk if possible.
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to help it maintain its structure.
- Serve warm with salted butter for the most authentic Irish experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 1mg
