There’s something magical about the rustic charm of Simple White Irish Soda Bread, a loaf that’s both humble and deeply satisfying. With its golden crust and tender, slightly crumbly interior, this bread is a celebration of simplicity and flavor.
The subtle tang of buttermilk pairs beautifully with the soft, pillowy texture, making every bite a comforting delight. Best of all, it’s ready in just over an hour—perfect for when you need fresh bread without the wait.
This recipe is a testament to how a few basic ingredients can create something extraordinary. The aroma of freshly baked bread fills your kitchen, while the warm, buttery slices are perfect on their own or slathered with jam.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this effortless recipe promises a rewarding experience and a loaf that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients for Simple White Irish Soda Bread
- 3 1/2 cups (18oz/497g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons (1oz/28g) butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 egg
- 1 3/4 cups (14oz/400ml) buttermilk* (see note below for homemade buttermilk substitute)
*Buttermilk substitute: Mix 1 3/4 cups milk with 1 3/4 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes before using.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (210°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse bread crumbs.
- In a separate jug, whisk together the egg and buttermilk.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in 3/4 of the buttermilk mixture. Use an open hand to bring the flour and liquid together into a soft, loose dough. Add more liquid if needed (flours vary in absorption).
- Turn the dough onto a floured work surface and gently shape it into a round about 8 inches in diameter.
- Place the dough on a floured baking sheet.
- Score the bread with a deep cross on top. Poke a hole in each of the 4 corners (a traditional step to “release the fairies”).
- Glaze the bread with the remaining buttermilk in your jug.
- Bake at 425°F (210°C) for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 30 minutes more. The loaf is done when it sounds slightly hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the baking sheet and cool on a wire rack.
- Serve with Irish butter and jam. Store at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This Simple White Irish Soda Bread is a versatile treat that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a classic Irish experience, slather it with Irish butter and your favorite jam. It also makes a delightful base for smoked salmon or a hearty soup. For a sweet twist, try it with honey or clotted cream.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your soda bread fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel for up to 4 days. If you’d like to enjoy it warm, simply slice and toast it lightly in a toaster or oven. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months—thaw at room temperature before serving.
Recipe Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this bread to suit your taste! Add 1/2 cup of raisins or currants for a touch of sweetness, or mix in 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese and chopped herbs for a savory twist. You can also experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor—just replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat.
Equipment Guidance for Success
To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need a large mixing bowl, a whisk, and a baking sheet. A pastry cutter or your fingertips work perfectly for blending the butter into the flour. Don’t forget a sharp knife for scoring the bread and a wire rack for cooling it evenly.
Common Questions Answered
Can I make buttermilk at home? Absolutely! Mix 1 3/4 cups of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes, and you’re good to go. Why poke holes in the bread? It’s a traditional Irish practice to “release the fairies” and ensure even baking. Plus, it adds a charming touch to your loaf!
Simple White Irish Soda Bread
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 egg
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk *
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (210°C).
- Mix together the flour, salt and baking soda in a large bowl.
- Add the butter and rub into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse bread crumbs.
- In a separate jug, whisk the egg and buttermilk together (see note on how to make Buttermilk below).
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour 3/4 of the liquid into the flour mixture. Using an open hand bring the flour and liquid together to a loose dough. The dough should be quite soft, but not too sticky. You can add a little more of the milk mix if it is needed. (flours in different places react differently).
- Turn onto a floured work surface and gently bring the dough together into a round about 8 inches by 8 inches.
- Place on a baking sheet dusted well with flour.
- Score the bread by blessing it with a deep cross on top. Poke a hole in the 4 corners of the bread to release the fairies and stop them from cursing your beautiful bread (see video).
- Glaze the bread with the leftover bit of buttermilk in your jug.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (210°C), then turn down the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 30 minutes more. When done, the loaf will sound slightly hollow when tapped on the bottom. Remove from the baking sheet and place on a wire rack to cool.
- Serve with Irish butter and jam. Store at room temperature for 4 days.