Traditional Irish Soda Bread

Course: Bread

Cuisine: American

Keyword: soda bread

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 35

Total Time: 50

Servings: loaf (6-8 servings)

Calories: 3634kcal

Author: Malinda Linnebur

Traditional Irish Soda Bread- this Irish Soda Bread recipe only requires 4 ingredients! It doesn't use yeast so it's simple to make!

Preheat oven to 400℉. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease well; set aside. You can also use an 8" cake pan or oven proof skillet.
In a large bowl whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the buttermilk just until combined and it starts to become too stiff to stir. Transfer to work surface and with floured hands lightly knead the dough 5-10 times or until all the flour is moistened and the dough comes together.
Form dough into an 8" round. Place on the prepared pan and with a very sharp knife, cut a ¼-½" deep X on the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown, and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The loaf is also done when an instant read thermometer reads the center of the loaf at 195℉.

This bread is best served shortly after baking but can be stored at room temperature tightly wrapped for 2-3 days. Can also be frozen for 2-3 months.
Buttermilk is vital to the flavor and texture in this recipe and cannot be replaced with plain milk. However, you can make your own buttermilk by pouring 2 tablespoons white vinegar or fresh (not bottled) lemon juice in a liquid measuring cup. Fill with whole milk or 2%. (I don't recommend using anything less than 2% for this recipe.) Let stand 5-10 minutes before using.
Nutrition Facts: Since different brands of ingredients have different nutritional information, the information shown is just an estimate. Nutrition information is for the entire loaf.