Simple Irish Soda Bread

This traditional Irish bread is crafted with only four ingredients and is leavened with baking soda and buttermilk instead of yeast. You’ll love the dense crumb, complemented by its crusty exterior and rustic goodness. And it’s so simple to make; why not give it a try?

Ingredients:

4 cups flour
1 Tbsp. baking soda
1/2 Tbsp. Redmond Real Salt Kosher
2 cups buttermilk

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
Slowly add the buttermilk while bringing the dough together with your hands.
Form it into a round loaf (add up to 1/2 cup more buttermilk if necessary), being careful not to over-mix.
Place the loaf on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
With a sharp knife, score the top with an X. This allows it to bake through the center.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is brown.
Transfer to a cooling rack and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing

About Shawn Wilson

Chef Shawn Wilson grew up in upstate New York in a close Italian family. Being in the kitchen around home made food was part of every family gathering. Through college he worked in restaurants and bars to make money. After college he moved to Cape Cod Massachusetts where he worked at a 5 star resort and developed a passion for quality, fresh ingredients. After 3 years on the cape he moved to Utah and has worked and learned from some of the top Chefs at the best restaurants in the state over the last 18 years. Every meal is made into an experience when he cooks. His love for great food and quality ingredients tells his story in each dish he thoughtfully prepares.

Comments (5)

Diana

Mar 17, 2025

Looks simple but no sweetener or currants/raisins?
Thanks.
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Redmond Life replied:
Great question! Traditional Irish soda bread is typically made without sweeteners or dried fruit, keeping it simple and hearty. However, if you prefer a sweeter version, feel free to add a little honey, maple syrup, or a handful of currants or raisins to the dough. Happy baking!

Michelle

Mar 17, 2025

I can’t use regular flour since I’m a diabetic. What other flour can I use?
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Redmond Life replied:
Great question! Since flour substitutions can change the texture and baking process, we recommend looking for a soda bread recipe specifically designed for low-carb or diabetic-friendly flours like almond or coconut flour. That way, you’ll get the best results without having to guess at adjustments. Happy baking!

Stuart Rodes

Mar 18, 2024

Plain yogurt works even better than what’s sold as butter milk in the US
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Redmond Life replied:
Thanks for the tip, Stuart! We’ll have to give that a try.

m

Mar 18, 2024

Can this be made gluten free? Such as with Almond flour or other gluten free flours?
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Redmond Life replied:
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour. However, because different flours require slightly different amounts, it might be best to use a recipe specifically written for the flour you choose for best results. We’ll have more gluten-free recipes for you soon!