This traditional Irish soda bread recipe has been passed down for generations and remains one of the easiest homemade breads you can make. Unlike yeast breads, soda bread relies on baking soda and buttermilk to create its rise, making it quick, simple, and perfect for beginners.
The texture is beautifully dense yet soft, with a crisp golden crust that makes every slice irresistible. Whether served warm with butter, jam, or alongside soups and stews, this bread is a timeless comfort food.
Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, cozy mornings, or rustic dinners, this recipe delivers authentic flavor with minimal effort.
table of contents
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Cuisine: Irish
Course: Bread
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups (420 ml) buttermilk
- 1 large egg (optional)
- 4 1/4 cups (531 g) all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup raisins (optional)
Pork Substitution Notes
This recipe is naturally pork-free and halal-friendly.
If you want to elevate it with add-ins often used in Western baking, try:
• dried cranberries instead of raisins
• orange zest for a citrus twist
• nuts like walnuts or almonds
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or prepare a cast iron skillet or cake pan.
2. Mix wet ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Set aside.
3. Combine dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
4. Cut in butter
Add the cold cubed butter and mix using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
5. Add raisins (optional)
Stir in raisins or your preferred add-ins.
6. Form the dough
Pour in the buttermilk mixture and gently mix until the dough becomes too stiff to stir.
Transfer to a floured surface and knead lightly for about 30 seconds until it comes together.
7. Shape and score
Shape into a round loaf and transfer to your prepared pan. Use a sharp knife to score an “X” on top.
8. Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes until golden brown. Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
The bread is done when the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C).
9. Cool and serve
Let the bread cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
Serve warm, toasted, or at room temperature.
Pro Tips
• Use cold butter for better texture
• Do not over-knead the dough
• Always use buttermilk for proper rise
• Score deeply to help even baking
Nutrition (Approximate)
Calories: 300–330 kcal
Carbs: 45 g
Protein: 7 g
Fat: 10 g
FAQs
What makes Irish soda bread rise?
Baking soda reacts with buttermilk to create bubbles that help the bread rise without yeast.
Can I make it without buttermilk?
Yes. Mix milk with lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
Why is my soda bread dense?
Over-kneading or adding too much flour can make it dense.
Disclaimer
This recipe is for informational purposes only. Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Grandma’s Irish Soda Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- In a bowl, mix the buttermilk and egg (if using).
- In a separate large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Gently knead the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Fold in raisins if using.
- Score a cross on the top of the loaf.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Conclusion
Grandma’s Irish Soda Bread is one of those timeless recipes that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its crisp crust and soft interior, this bread is perfect for any occasion—from everyday meals to festive gatherings.
Easy to make and deeply comforting, this recipe is a must-have in your baking collection.