Homemade Irish Soda Bread with Raisins Recipe

Sharing is caring!

This traditional Irish soda bread with raisins is a simple, flavourful loaf made with just six ingredients and ready in under an hour. Perfect for those who appreciate authentic Irish baking and want a delicious bread to accompany their meals.

Jump to Recipe

Irish soda bread is a classic bread that uses baking soda as a leavening agent, rather than yeast, making it quick and easy to prepare. This bread is traditionally dense and hearty, often referred to as brown bread in Ireland, where it is made using a mix of whole wheat and unbleached white flour.

Enjoy this loaf with butter, or alongside a warming bowl of Irish stew or a full Irish breakfast for a truly comforting meal.

Irish Soda Bread with Raisins Recipe

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas Mark 6.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Stir in the raisins to distribute evenly.
4. Make a well in the centre and gradually add the buttermilk, mixing gently with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. Avoid over-mixing to keep the bread light.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly for about 1 minute.
6. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
7. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross on the top of the loaf. This helps the bread cook evenly and is a traditional feature of Irish soda bread.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the base.
9. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack.
10. Serve warm with butter or alongside your favourite Irish dishes such as traditional Irish stew or a full Irish breakfast.

How to Store Homemade Irish Soda Bread with Raisins

Store your soda bread in an airtight container or wrapped in a clean tea towel at room temperature. It will keep fresh for 2-3 days. Avoid refrigerating as this can dry out the bread.

Can You Freeze Homemade Irish Soda Bread with Raisins?

Yes, you can freeze soda bread. Slice it first and wrap the slices tightly in cling film or foil, then place in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm slices in a toaster or oven.

Why Is My Irish Soda Bread Dense?

Soda bread is naturally denser than yeast breads due to the absence of yeast and the quick baking process. However, if your bread is excessively heavy, it could be due to over-mixing the dough or using too much flour. Mix gently and only until combined to keep the bread light and tender.

How to Make a Dublin Coddle with Irish Soda Bread (Video)

For a truly comforting Irish meal, try pairing your soda bread with a classic Dublin Coddle recipe. This hearty stew is a perfect match for the dense, flavourful soda bread.

For more inspiration on Irish baking, check out Irish Soda Scones and Chris’s Traditional Irish Soda Bread. You might also enjoy exploring our other Irish soda bread recipes and learning about traditional Irish cooking.

For a delightful twist, try pairing your soda bread with Guinness Shepherd’s Pie or explore more 8 Irish comfort foods that bring the taste of home to your table.

Love Traditional Irish Food?

We share authentic Irish recipes, baking tips, and food traditions every week. Join thousands of readers who get the best of Irish cooking delivered straight to their inbox.

Join the Love Irish Cooking Newsletter

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time does Irish soda bread take?

This recipe takes under an hour total, with 35-45 minutes of baking time, making it perfect when you want fresh bread quickly without waiting for yeast to rise.

Why do you cut a cross on top of the loaf?

The cross helps the bread cook evenly throughout and is a traditional feature of Irish soda bread that’s part of the authentic baking method.

What should I serve Irish soda bread with?

Serve it warm with butter, or pair it alongside traditional Irish stew or a full Irish breakfast for a satisfying, comforting meal.

What makes Irish soda bread different from regular bread?

Irish soda bread uses baking soda as a leavening agent instead of yeast, so it doesn’t need rising time and is traditionally denser and heartier than standard bread.

Secure Your Dream Irish Experience Before It’s Gone!

Planning a trip to Ireland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions spoil your journey. Iconic experiences like visiting the Cliffs of Moher, exploring the Rock of Cashel, or enjoying a guided walk through Ireland’s ancient past often sell out quickly—especially during peak travel seasons.

Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Ireland’s hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.

Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!

Sharing is caring!