Authentic 4-Ingredient Irish Soda

My flatmate Sarah taught me to make this during our first Dublin winter, when the rain battered against our kitchen windows for three days straight and we needed something warm from the oven that didnt require waiting hours for yeast to work its magic.

We ate half the loaf standing right there at the counter, slathering it with butter while it was still too hot to touch properly, burning our fingers just a little because we couldnt wait.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour (4 cups): The foundation of the bread, providing structure and that classic tender crumb Irish soda bread is known for
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Works instantly with the buttermilk to create rise, eliminating the need for yeast or long proofing times
• Fine sea salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the natural wheat flavor and helps balance the tanginess of the buttermilk
• Buttermilk (1 3/4 cups): The essential acid that activates the baking soda, while also creating a tender, moist texture and subtle tang

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or dust it lightly with flour so nothing sticks later

Mix the dry ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until theyre thoroughly combined and aerated

Combine wet and dry:

Create a well in the center of your flour mixture and pour in the buttermilk, then stir gently with a wooden spoon just until a shaggy dough forms

Shape the loaf:

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it very gently just until it comes together, then shape it into a round, slightly flattened loaf about 2 inches thick

Score and bake:

Use a sharp knife to cut a deep X across the top of the loaf, then bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and hollow when tapped

Cool before slicing:

Transfer to a wire rack and let it rest for at least 30 minutes, otherwise youll end up with a gummy interior

Save

Now whenever I smell fresh soda bread baking, Im transported back to that tiny kitchen, watching steam rise off the loaf while Sarah made tea and we planned our weekend adventures.

Making It Your Own

You can easily add texture and flavor by mixing in raisins, caraway seeds, or even a handful of shredded cheddar cheese and fresh herbs.

Buttermilk Substitutions

If you dont have buttermilk on hand, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for five minutes until it thickens slightly and curdles.

Serving Suggestions

This bread is best enjoyed warm, spread thickly with salted butter that melts into all those little crevices, or alongside a hearty bowl of soup.

• Try it with honey for a sweet breakfast treat
• Toasting leftovers brings back some of that fresh-baked texture
• Store in a cloth bag at room temperature for up to two days

Save

Theres something profoundly satisfying about making your own bread, especially when it requires so little effort and rewards you with such warmth and comfort.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes this Irish soda bread authentic?

It uses the classic four ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk, reflecting traditional preparation and texture.

→ Can I substitute buttermilk in this bread?

Yes, combine milk with lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk’s acidity.

→ How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The loaf should develop a golden crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

→ Why should the dough not be over-kneaded?

Minimal kneading ensures a tender crumb and maintains the bread’s characteristic rustic texture.

→ Can I enrich the flavor of the bread?

Substituting half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour adds depth and a nuttier taste.