Savory Cheddar Chive Loaf

The first time I made this cheddar and chive soda bread, my kitchen smelled like an Irish bakery. The cheese was sizzling slightly as it hit the hot oven, creating this incredible aroma that had my roommate wandering in from the living room. I'd never thought about putting sharp cheddar in soda bread before, but something about the combination just made sense.

I brought this loaf to a St. Patrick's Day dinner last year, and honestly, it disappeared faster than the corned beef. My friend Sarah kept asking what I put in it to make it so flavorful, and when I told her how simple it was, she refused to believe me. Now she makes it every time soup is on the menu.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: The foundation of your bread, providing structure and that satisfying tender crumb
• Baking soda: Your leavening agent that reacts with buttermilk to create rise
• Fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sharpness of the cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle warmth that complements the cheddar beautifully
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Coarsely grate it yourself for better melting and distribution throughout the dough
• Fresh chives: Their mild onion flavor pairs perfectly with cheese without overpowering
• Buttermilk: The acidity activates the baking soda and creates a tender texture
• Unsalted butter: Melted and cooled adds richness without making the dough too greasy

Instructions

Preheat your oven:

Get it to 400°F with a rack in the middle position while you line a baking sheet with parchment paper

Whisk the dry ingredients:

Combine flour, baking soda, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until everything is evenly distributed

Add the cheese and herbs:

Stir in the grated cheddar and chopped chives until they're coated in flour and spread throughout

Create the dough:

Make a well in the center, pour in buttermilk and melted butter, then mix with a wooden spoon until shaggy

Shape the loaf:

Turn onto a floured surface and gently knead just until it comes together, then form into a 7 inch round

Score and bake:

Cut a deep X across the top and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and hollow sounding when tapped

Cool before slicing:

Let it rest on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes so the crumb sets properly

Save

This bread has become my go to when I need something comforting but don't want to wait hours for dough to rise. The first warm slice with melting butter is pure happiness, especially on rainy afternoons.

Making It Your Own

I've experimented with different cheeses and found that aged gouda creates this incredible caramelized sweetness. Sometimes I'll add a handful of diced jalapeños when I want something with a kick.

Serving Suggestions

This bread shines alongside a hearty potato leek soup or beef stew. I've also served it for brunch with scrambled eggs and it disappears embarrassingly fast.

Storage & Reheating

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days, after which it's best toasted. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Wrap leftover slices in foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes
• The toaster revives day old bread beautifully, creating crispy edges
• Frozen bread can go directly from freezer to oven, just add a few minutes

Save

There's something so satisfying about pulling a warm, cheesy loaf from the oven with minimal effort. Hope this becomes a staple in your kitchen too.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cheese is used?

Sharp cheddar cheese is grated coarsely to add a rich and tangy flavor throughout the bread.

→ Can I substitute chives with another herb?

Yes, green onions work well as a substitute, providing a similar mild onion flavor.

→ How do I know when the bread is baked?

The loaf should be deeply golden and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating it is fully baked.

→ Is baking soda the leavening agent?

Yes, baking soda reacts with buttermilk to create a tender crumb and help the loaf rise quickly without yeast.

→ Can I add extra flavorings to the dough?

Adding dried thyme or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients can enhance the aroma and taste.