Patrick'S Irish Soda Bread
Patrick's Irish Soda Bread is a hearty, slightly sweet bread with raisins and caraway seeds, perfect for breakfast or teatime, offering a taste of traditional Irish baking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt together in a bowl.
- Add the sour cream, eggs, raisins, and caraway seed to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Shape the dough into a round form and place it into a cake pan.
- Cut an 'X' into the top of the dough with a sharp knife.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of sour cream, or add a tablespoon of lemon juice to regular milk to create a similar effect. If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the sugar by half. You can also substitute half the raisins with dried cranberries for a tangy twist. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon can enhance the overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese for a delightful snack. This bread pairs beautifully with soups or stews, making it a perfect accompaniment to a hearty meal. For a delightful brunch option, enjoy it alongside a slice of Diabetic Breakfast Fruit Loaf or as part of a spread with Very Good Snack Canape.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Irish soda bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice the bread and toast it lightly in a toaster or oven until warmed through, enhancing its texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Patrick'S Irish Soda Bread contains roughly 559 calories, with 16g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 754mg per serving (33% 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 all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. To improve the rise, consider using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, or add an extra teaspoon of baking powder.
What can I use if I don't have caraway seeds?
If you don't have caraway seeds, you can use fennel seeds for a similar flavor profile, or simply omit them if you prefer a more traditional taste. Some people even enjoy adding a bit of cumin for a unique twist.
Can I freeze Irish soda bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or slice and toast directly from the freezer for a quick treat.
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).