Name: Irish Soda Bread | Easy St Patrick's Day Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups raisins, or currants, optional*; ⅔ cup irish whiskey such as jameson, or apple juice or white grape juice, optional; 4 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ¾ teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 ¾ cups buttermilk*; 2 large eggs + 2 yolks, use the extra whites for an omelette or scrambled eggs; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; divided; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar, optional (granulated sugar may be substituted)

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There’s something undeniably charming about Irish Soda Bread, a warm loaf that captures the essence of comforting home baking. This rustic bread is not just about its hearty texture; it’s an intriguing blend of tangy buttermilk and the subtle sweetness of sugar, creating a flavor profile that is satisfying yet uncomplicated. Furthermore, the delightful crust, with a golden brown exterior, hints at the softness hidden within. It’s the kind of bread that can transform a simple meal into something special.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Irish Soda Bread | Easy St Patrick’s Day Bread Recipe
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Irish Soda Bread | Easy St Patrick’s Day Bread

Irish Soda Bread | Easy St Patrick's Day Bread

When I first made Irish Soda Bread, I felt an instant connection to the heart of Irish culture. The aroma wafting through my kitchen transported me to cozy pubs and family gatherings. I realized that this bread is more than a recipe; it’s a way to celebrate togetherness and tradition, especially on occasions like St. Patrick’s Day. You’ll love whipping up this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and absolutely scrumptious—perfect for impressing family and friends with just a little effort. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the joy of baking this delightful Irish Soda Bread!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 15 minutes of prep and another 55 for baking, you’ll have fresh, homemade bread in under an hour.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttermilk and butter lends a rich creaminess, while the optional raisins or currants provide a sweet burst in every bite.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The distinctive X scored on top gives it a rustic charm that’s as impressive as it is inviting.
Flexible Serving: Whether you enjoy it warm with butter for breakfast, as a savory side at dinner, or even as a midnight snack, this bread fits any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: With a simple replacement of ingredients, this recipe can be adapted for gluten-free eaters or those seeking a dairy-free version.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 ¾ cups raisins or currants, optional: Adds a hint of sweetness. If you don’t have dried fruit, feel free to skip it or use chopped nuts instead for added crunch.
⅔ cup Irish whiskey (such as Jameson) or apple juice or white grape juice, optional: Soaking your raisins in liquor or juice enhances their flavor and moisture; choose the option that suits you best.
4 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your bread, providing structure without overwhelming the flavors. For a gluten-free alternative, use a 1:1 baking blend.
3 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Gives the bread its lift, ensuring a fluffy texture.
¾ teaspoon baking soda: Balances the acidity of the buttermilk, contributing to the bread’s rise.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your bread.
1 ¾ cups buttermilk: This adds moisture and tanginess. If buttermilk is unavailable, mix regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to create a suitable substitute.
2 large eggs + 2 yolks: These bind the ingredients and enrich the texture. You can save the extra egg whites for a delicious omelet.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, divided: Provides flavor and tenderness to the bread; use unsalted to control the saltiness.
¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the bread’s rustic charm.
2 tablespoons turbinado sugar, optional: This adds a delightful crunch on top—however, regular granulated sugar can be used in a pinch.

How to Make Irish Soda Bread | Easy St Patrick’s Day Bread Recipe

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, generously spray a nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray or (for a true Irish touch) place a 9-inch cast iron skillet inside to preheat as well.

Soak the Raisins (Optional): If you choose to use raisins, place them in a medium bowl and pour the Irish whiskey, apple juice, or white grape juice over them. Let them soak while you prepare the rest of your ingredients. This step makes the raisins plump and flavorful.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 4 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ¾ teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt. This blend creates the perfect base for your soda bread, so ensure there are no lumps.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups buttermilk, 2 large eggs, 2 egg yolks, 3 tablespoons of the melted butter, and ¼ cup granulated sugar until everything is well combined.

Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula. Be gentle here—mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf.

Incorporate Raisins: If you’re using the soaked raisins, drain them and gently fold them into the dough. A slotted spoon is a handy tool for this task—just make sure not to overmix!

Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto your prepared baking sheet or remove the hot skillet from the oven (carefully!) and grease it with butter. Pat the dough into a round loaf shape. Don’t worry if it looks a little shaggy and sticky; that’s perfectly normal.

Score the Dough: Using a sharp knife, gently score a large X on top of the loaf, cutting about ½ inch deep. This allows the bread to rise evenly and gives it that classic look.

Brush with Butter: Use the remaining 1 tablespoon of melted butter to brush over the surface of the dough. This adds flavor and ensures a beautiful golden crust.

Sprinkle Sugar: For an extra touch of sweetness and crunch, sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of turbinado sugar, if using.

Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet or skillet in the oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes. The bread should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary.

Cool Before Slicing: Once baked, allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps the texture set, so you don’t have a crumbling mess!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Irish Soda Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you prefer to keep it longer, it freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop your slices in the toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, just until they regain their slight warmth and gentle texture. Be aware that freezing might slightly alter the texture, but a dab of butter or a quick toast can refresh the flavors.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to a dense texture instead of the lovely crumb you want.
Ensure all your ingredients, especially buttermilk and eggs, are at room temperature for the best results.
Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even browning, particularly important if your oven has hot spots.
If the crust browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the bread continues to bake.
Feel free to experiment with mix-ins: nuts, seeds, or even spices can add a unique touch to the bread’s flavor.

Baking Irish soda bread is an exciting journey that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen. It’s a straightforward recipe that rewards you with delicious homemade bread that can be cherished by family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving a slice of tradition, this bread is sure to be a favorite in your home.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Irish Soda Bread without buttermilk?

Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can create a simple substitute by mixing 1 ¾ cups of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes until it curdles slightly, and it will work perfectly in the recipe.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

You’ll know the bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you use a toothpick in the center, it should come out clean too. Baking times can vary, so checking regularly is key.

Can I freeze Irish Soda Bread?

Yes! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

What can I serve with Irish Soda Bread?

Irish Soda Bread pairs beautifully with a simple pat of butter or can be enjoyed alongside soups and stews. For a sweeter twist, enjoy it with jam, honey, or even a touch of cream cheese for breakfast.