Written by DEPKES.ORG March 2023
Irish Soda Bread is a quick bread that does not require any yeast. Instead, all of its leavening comes from baking soda and buttermilk. This Irish Soda Bread recipe is my grandmother’s and has been cherished in my family for years. It’s dense, yet soft and has the most incredible crusty exterior.
– 1 and 3/4 cups (420ml) buttermilk* – 1 large egg (optional, see note) – 4 and 1/4 cups (531g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled), plus more for your hands and counter – 3 Tablespoons (38g) granulated sugar – 1 teaspoon baking soda – 1 teaspoon salt – 5 Tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed* – optional: 1 cup (150g) raisins
1. Preheat oven & pan options: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). 2. Whisk the buttermilk and egg together. Set aside. Whisk the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter, a fork, or your fingers......
3. Transfer the dough to the prepared skillet/pan. Using a very sharp knife or bread lame, score the dough with a slash or X about 1/2 inch deep. 4. Bake until the bread is golden brown and center appears cooked through, about 45-55 minutes......
5. Remove from the oven and allow bread to cool for 10 minutes, and then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm, at room temperature, or toasted with desired toppings/spreads. 6. Cover and store leftover bread at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. We usually wrap it tightly in aluminum foil for storing.