Baking & Pastry > Bread Baking > Quick Breads > Scone Recipe (Sweet & Savory)

Easy Irish Soda Bread

This simple Irish Soda Bread recipe requires no yeast and comes together in minutes. A perfect quick bread for St. Patrick's Day or any day you crave a rustic, hearty loaf.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35-40 minutes
Servings
8-10 slices
Ingredients
  • 4 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Sugar
  • 1 3/4 cups Buttermilk
  • 1 Egg
  • 4 tablespoons Butter, cold and cubed

Getting Started

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Having all your ingredients measured and ready will speed up the process.

Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Make sure the baking soda is evenly distributed to ensure proper rising.

Adding the Butter

Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The cold butter creates pockets of steam during baking, leading to a tender crumb.

Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Make sure the egg is fully incorporated.

Combining Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix! Overmixing will develop the gluten and result in a tough bread. The dough will be shaggy and slightly sticky.

Shaping the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently shape it into a round about 1 1/2 - 2 inches thick. Do not knead the dough.

Scoring the Bread

Place the round on the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross into the top of the bread. This helps the bread bake evenly and allows steam to escape.

Baking

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cooling

Let the bread cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.

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FAQ

  • Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

    Yes, you can use regular milk. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to the milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle before using.
  • Can I add raisins or caraway seeds?

    Yes, you can add up to 1/2 cup of raisins or 1 tablespoon of caraway seeds to the dry ingredients.
  • How should I store Irish Soda Bread?

    Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature. It's best enjoyed within 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.