Irish Soda Bread Recipe - Mess for Less (2024)

One of my favorite things to make for St. Patrick's Day is Irish Soda Bread. If you've never had it before, it's not a bread in the way you might typically think of bread. The texture and consistency is similar to that of a scone. I did a little research on Irish Soda Bread and discovered that it started out with very basic ingredients which poorer households in Ireland had access to. Before cooking, a cross was carved into the top of the dough. I thought this was for aesthetic purposes, but it actually was believed to ward off the devil and protect the household where it was made.

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⭐Why This Recipe Works

• This Irish Soda Bread recipehas many steps that kids can help with.
• Great to make to celebrate Saint Patrick's day
• Unique flavor and rustic texture

🥣Ingredient Notes

• All-purpose white flour - King Arthur's All Purpose Unbleached flour contains more protein than most other flours so it gives the bread a great texture.
• Sugar - helps to give the bread a slightly sweet flavor
• Baking soda - leavening agent used to help the dough rise
• Baking powder - another leavening agent
• Butter - softened and melted for brushing on top.
• Buttermilk - adds flavor and helps to dough to rise
• Large egg - some recipes call for no egg, but I find the egg adds richness to the bread.
• Raisins - add sweetness, but you can also add craisins for a more tart flavor.

📋Step by Step Instructions

STEP 1: Preheat oven to 375 degrees and grease the baking sheet.

STEP 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine all purpose flour, ⅓ cup of sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and softened butter.

STEP 3: Stir in the buttermilk and egg until a dough starts to form, then fold in raisins. If the dough is still crumbly, add a splash of buttermilk until it comes together.

STEP 4: Knead dough on a lightly floured surface. Form into a round loaf.

STEP 5: Brush the top of the loaf with ¼ cup of melted butter then sprinkle ½ tablespoon of sugar on top.

STEP 6: Cut an X into the top of the loaf using a sharp knife.

STEP 7: Bake on a baking sheet for 1 hour. Test to see if it is done by inserting a toothpick into the center and checking to see that it comes out clean.

STEP 8: Remove from pan and allow to cool on a wire rack.

The Irish Soda Bread recipe is best when it's still warm with a touch of butter. The golden crust makes the bread look so pretty and appetizing.

👩🏻‍🍳Expert Tips

Tip 1: This Irish soda bread recipe calls for buttermilk. If you must have some Irish Soda Bread and don't have buttermilk on hand, you can quickly make your own. I found a great tutorialhere.

Tip 2: You can substitute dried cranberries for the raisins if you prefer.

Tip 3: If the loaf is too thick, the center might take longer to bake. Simply place some foil over the top of the loaf and continue baking until done.

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