Mum’s Traditional Irish Soda Bread Recipe (Brown Bread) Recipe

Mum’s Traditional Irish Soda Bread is a rustic, wholesome delight that brings the heart of Ireland to your kitchen. With its crusty exterior and tender, slightly crumbly interior, this brown bread is a perfect balance of textures.

The nutty aroma of wholemeal flour and the subtle tang of buttermilk create a flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. Best of all, it’s ready in just one hour, making it an ideal choice for a quick, homemade treat.

This bread pairs beautifully with soups, stews, or simply slathered with butter and jam. Its simplicity and rich, earthy flavors make it a timeless favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and rewarding. In just 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of baking, you’ll have a loaf that’s warm, fragrant, and utterly irresistible.

Ingredients for Mum’s Traditional Irish Soda Bread

• 1 ¾ cups (260 g/9 oz) whole wheat flour (fine ground)
• 1 ¾ cups (260 g/9 oz) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons (28 g/1 oz) cold butter, cubed
• 1 large egg
• 1 ⅔ cups (13 fl oz/370 ml) buttermilk* (see note below for homemade substitute)
• 1 tablespoon rolled oats (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (215°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add the cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
4. In a separate jug, whisk together the egg and buttermilk.
5. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the liquid mixture, holding a little back. Use an open hand to bring the flour and liquid together into a loose dough. The dough should be soft but not too sticky. Adjust with more liquid if needed.
6. Turn the dough onto a floured work surface and gently shape it into a round, about 1 ½ inches (4 cm) thick and 8 inches by 8 inches.
7. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet. Score the bread with a deep cross on top (a traditional blessing). Poke a hole in each of the four corners to “release the fairies.”
8. Glaze the bread with the reserved buttermilk and sprinkle the rolled oats on top.
9. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes. The bread is done when it sounds slightly hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Remove the bread from the baking sheet and cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice and enjoy with butter. Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions for Irish Soda Bread

This traditional Irish soda bread is a versatile treat that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory accompaniments. Slather it with creamy Irish butter and a drizzle of honey for a simple yet satisfying snack.

For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a bowl of hearty vegetable soup or a plate of smoked salmon with cream cheese. Don’t forget to enjoy it with a cup of hot tea for the ultimate cozy experience!

Storing and Reviving Your Soda Bread

To keep your soda bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend its life, slice and freeze it in a resealable bag for up to 2 months.

To revive frozen bread, simply toast it or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. It’ll taste just as good as the day it was baked!

Recipe Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this classic recipe! Add 1/2 cup of raisins or currants for a touch of sweetness, or mix in 1/4 cup of seeds (like sunflower or pumpkin) for extra crunch. For a savory twist, stir in 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese and a pinch of smoked paprika. These variations add a fun twist while keeping the bread’s traditional charm intact.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers

If you’re short on time, prep your dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. You can also make your own buttermilk quickly by mixing 1 ⅔ cups of milk with 1 ½ tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes. These small steps can shave off precious minutes and make baking even more enjoyable!

Why the Cross and Fairies? A Fun Tradition Explained

Scoring a cross on the bread isn’t just for looks—it’s a traditional Irish practice that helps the bread bake evenly. The holes in the corners? They’re said to release the fairies and prevent them from cursing your loaf! It’s a charming bit of folklore that adds a touch of magic to this already special recipe.