Description
This Irish Soda Bread recipe is a game changer! Soft, moist, and perfectly tender with a hint of sweetness, this easy-to-make bread has a delightful texture and flavor. With the secret ingredient of oil, this version stays tender, soft, and forgiving. Perfect for tea time or paired with Corned Beef and Cabbage, this Irish Soda Bread is a must-try for St. Patrick’s Day or any day you crave a classic!
Ingredients
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 ¼ cups buttermilk (or homemade buttermilk: 1 tablespoon vinegar + ¾ cup milk)
1 cup raisins (optional, for sweetness)
1 egg white (for glazing the bread)
Instructions
1. Prep the Raisins (Optional):
Boil water and pour it over the raisins. Let them soak for about 10 minutes to plump them up before draining and adding to the dough.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda. This is the base of your bread.
3. Cut in Butter and Oil:
Add cold butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or a fork to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.
Add vegetable oil and gently mix it in, being careful not to over-mix.
4. Add Raisins (Optional):
If you’re using raisins, fold them into the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
5. Add Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and egg yolk.
Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture, stirring gently with a rubber spatula to form a sticky dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough—this helps the bread stay tender.
6. Knead the Dough:
Lightly flour your surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently knead the dough about 2-3 times to bring it together. Avoid over-kneading.
7. Shape the Loaf:
Shape the dough into a round loaf. Transfer it to a greased cast-iron skillet or a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Use a sharp knife to cut a deep cross on the top of the dough. This allows steam to escape and helps cook the center.
8. Brush with Egg White:
Lightly beat the egg white and brush it over the top of the dough for a golden finish when baked.
9. Bake the Bread:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the bread for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
10. Cool and Serve:
Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter and jam, or alongside your favorite meal.
Notes
Tips for Making Perfect Irish Soda Bread:
Don’t Over-Mix the Dough: Over-mixing can result in dense, tough bread. Stir just until the dough comes together.
Use Cold Butter: Cold butter creates pockets of air that make the bread tender. Do not use softened butter for this recipe.
Preheat the Oven: A hot oven is essential for proper rise and crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside tender.
Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: For an authentic rustic look and even baking, bake your soda bread in a preheated cast-iron skillet.
Variations for Irish Soda Bread:
Add Cheese and Herbs: For a savory version, fold in shredded cheddar and chopped fresh rosemary or thyme.
Try Different Mix-ins: Instead of raisins, you can use dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or chocolate chips.
Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
Storage:
Room Temperature: Store the bread at room temperature in a sealed container or wrapped in plastic wrap for 2-3 days.
Freezing: Wrap the bread in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Irish Soda Bread:
Tender & Moist: The secret ingredient of oil makes this version of Irish Soda Bread moist and forgiving.
Quick & Easy: No yeast or rising time needed—this soda bread comes together quickly!
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, alongside hearty stews, or served with tea and jam.
Perfect Texture: A delicate, crumbly inside with a crisp crust on the outside.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American, European
