Irish Soda Bread(1 Loaf)
Irresistibly rustic Irish soda bread features chewy raisins and a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or alongside hearty meals, offering a comforting, slightly sweet flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, sugar, salt, soda, and baking powder in a bowl.
- Cut in margarine until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in raisins evenly.
- Combine buttermilk and beaten egg, then stir into dry ingredients until just moistened.
- Knead lightly until dough comes together.
- Shape into a 7-inch round ball and place on a greased baking sheet.
- Cut a deep cross into the top of the dough, about 1/4 inch deep.
- Brush the top with milk.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 60 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using buttermilk made from whole milk instead of low-fat. If you don't have raisins, dried cranberries or currants work as great substitutes. To ensure a tender bread, avoid over-kneading the dough. You can also add caraway seeds for an authentic taste. This Irish Soda Bread pairs beautifully with dishes like Wild Rice Baked In Consomme for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Irish Soda Bread warm, sliced, and spread with butter or jam for a delightful treat. It complements hearty soups and stews, making it a perfect side for dishes like Kluski Z Kapusta Po Polski(Polish Noodles And Cabbage). For a sweet twist, enjoy it with a cup of tea alongside Pfeffernuss Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Irish Soda Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in a toaster or oven until just heated through to maintain its crusty exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish Soda Bread(1 Loaf) contains roughly 438 calories, with 11g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1173mg per serving (51% 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 all-purpose flour instead of regular flour for this recipe?
Yes, all-purpose flour works well for this Irish Soda Bread. It will yield a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure to measure it properly, as too much can result in a dense loaf.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is done when it's golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when the bread is fully baked.
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).