Liz'S Irish Soda Bread
Irish soda bread is a hearty, buttery loaf with sweet raisins and a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or snacking with tea, suitable for quick, rustic baking enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a 9-inch pan with Pam and lightly flour it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar.
- Stir in raisins.
- Add buttermilk and melted butter, mixing until just combined to form a dough.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- Cut a cross on the top of the loaf for even baking.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also replace raisins with currants or dried cranberries for a different twist. Make sure not to overmix the dough; it should be just combined to ensure a tender bread. If you like a sweeter bread, add a bit more sugar or a drizzle of honey on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with butter and jam for a delightful breakfast or snack. This bread pairs beautifully with a hearty soup or stew, making it a great side for dishes like Irish beef stew. For a sweet treat, enjoy it alongside Myrtle'S Cake or a cup of tea for a comforting afternoon break.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Irish soda bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or oven at low heat until just warmed through, avoiding dryness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Liz'S Irish Soda Bread contains roughly 11 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, if you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it by adding one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure the baking powder and baking soda you use are also gluten-free to ensure the entire loaf remains safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this bread more flavorful?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for an extra flavor boost. Adding orange or lemon zest can also brighten the taste. For a savory version, try incorporating herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough.
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).