Simple Soda Bread

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Irish

A hearty, slightly sweet soda bread with raisins, perfect for breakfast or tea. Its tender crumb and golden crust make it a comforting, versatile choice for any occasion.

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Ingredients

  • 4 c. flour
  • 4 tsp. baking powder
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 c. raisins
  • 2 tsp. margarine
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 c. milk

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients and knead the dough.
  2. Shape the dough into a round loaf.
  3. Bake in the oven at 375°F for 1 hour.
  4. Let cool before slicing.
  5. Serve with butter or fruit preserves.

Tips & Substitutions

For a fluffier texture, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk. You can also replace raisins with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a different flavor. Make sure to not over-knead the dough, as this can lead to a dense loaf. If you want to add a hint of sweetness, a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar can be incorporated into the wet ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of this soda bread warm with a pat of butter or alongside fruit preserves for a delightful breakfast treat. It pairs beautifully with Sarah'S Quick Start Breakfast Drink for a complete morning meal. You can also enjoy it with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a light snack.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover soda bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Simple Soda Bread contains roughly 183 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1166mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).

183 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.1g 8% DV
Total Fat 2.8g 4% DV
Carbs 35.1g 13% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 6.2g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1166.4mg 51% DV
Potassium 82.9mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 7.2mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 25.1mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 2mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 194.6mg 15% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 some or all of the all-purpose flour. However, keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in a denser bread. You might want to add a little extra liquid to the dough to maintain moisture.

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?

To check if the soda bread is done, tap the bottom lightly; it should sound hollow. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is ready. Keep an eye on the crust to avoid over-browning.

Can I add other ingredients like nuts or spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture. You can also experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor. Just keep in mind that adding too many extra ingredients may affect the bread's rise and texture.

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).

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