Cheddar Scallion Soda Bread
A savory soda bread packed with sharp Cheddar and fresh scallions, perfect for quick snacks, breakfast, or alongside hearty soups and stews.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the scallions finely.
- If using milk and vinegar, add 1 1/2 teaspoons vinegar to 1/2 cup milk and let stand for a few minutes to create buttermilk.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and pepper.
- Cut the chilled butter into small pieces and cut into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the grated Cheddar cheese and chopped scallions to the mixture, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined to form a dough.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently a few times.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cut a cross on the top of the loaf, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using sharp Cheddar cheese. If you're out of buttermilk, mix regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute. Make sure not to over-knead the dough to keep the bread tender. You can also add herbs like chives or dill for an extra kick. This recipe is a great way to utilize leftover scallions from other dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Cheddar scallion soda bread is delightful served warm with butter or alongside a hearty soup or salad. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or even as a side for a breakfast dish, such as scrambled eggs. For a twist, try it with a spread of your favorite herb cream cheese. This versatile bread is perfect for brunch or as part of a casual dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soda bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Scallion Soda Bread contains roughly 284 calories, with 5g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may affect the texture. Start with 1 cup of whole wheat flour and adjust with all-purpose flour as needed to achieve the right consistency.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the bread?
You can add cooked bacon bits, sun-dried tomatoes, or even olives for a savory twist. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme also work well, making the bread more aromatic and flavorful.
How can I tell when the soda bread is done baking?
The soda bread is done when it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you have a thermometer, the internal temperature should be around 200°F (93°C).
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).