Irish Soda Bread Recipe – Soda bread is a variety of quick bread traditionally made in a variety of cuisines in which sodium bicarbonate (otherwise known as “baking soda”, or in Ireland, “bread soda”) is used as a leavening agent instead of the traditional yeast.
This classic bread is a staple in Irish kitchens and pairs beautifully with dishes like traditional Irish stew or a warming bowl of vegetable soup. Whether enjoyed fresh or toasted, it embodies the heart of Irish food culture.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Metric | Imperial / Cups |
|---|---|---|
| Plain white flour | 250g | 2 cups |
| Plain wholemeal flour | 250g | 2 cups |
| Porridge oats | 100g | 1 cup |
| Bicarbonate of soda | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Butter, cut in pieces | 25g | 2 tbsp |
| Buttermilk | 500ml | 2 cups |
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200C/gas 6/fan 180C and dust a baking sheet with flour. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients together, then rub in the butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
- Pour in the buttermilk and mix quickly with a table knife, then gently bring the dough together with your fingertips. Handle the dough very lightly to keep it tender. Shape into a flat, round loaf approximately 20cm/8in in diameter.
- Place the loaf on the baking sheet and score a deep cross on top. This traditional step is said to let the fairies out, but it also helps the bread cook evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bottom sounds hollow when tapped. If not fully cooked, turn the loaf upside down and bake for a few more minutes.
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack and cover with a clean tea towel to keep the crust soft. Leave to cool slightly before serving. Break into wedges or slice as preferred and enjoy very fresh.
How to Store Irish Soda Bread
Store your soda bread wrapped in a clean tea towel or in a bread bin at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the bread. For longer storage, consider freezing.
Can You Freeze Irish Soda Bread?
Yes, you can! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in cling film and then foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and refresh in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Why Is My Irish Soda Bread Dense?
If your soda bread turns out dense, it’s often due to overmixing the dough or using expired bicarbonate of soda. Mix just enough to combine ingredients and ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise.
Experience Authentic Irish Food in Person
Learn to bake authentic Irish scones and bread in a local home in Galway. This is a wonderful way to connect with Irish food culture and bring a real skill home with you.
Book: Traditional Irish Homemade Baking Scones and Bread class in Galway
For more delicious traditional recipes, explore Chris’s Traditional Irish Soda Bread, or try the Homemade Irish Soda Bread with Raisins for a fruity twist. If you love quick breads, don’t miss our Irish Soda Scones recipe, perfect for teatime. To complete your Irish food experience, pair your soda bread with a hearty traditional Irish stew or enjoy alongside a selection of Irish food and drink.
How would you like to learn the “Irish Soda Bread Way” in Ireland?
About
For those who appreciate traditional Irish baking, also consider exploring the stories of the Irish Baker Abroad or try your hand at Irish Soda Scones as a delightful companion to your soda bread.
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
64,000 Ireland lovers can’t be wrong.
Every week, our free newsletter delivers hidden gems, seasonal guides, local stories, and practical travel tips — straight to your inbox. Join the community that loves Ireland as much as you do.
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!
Sheila Higgs-Coulthard, nee Duggan
Monday 13th of November 2023
In my youth we used to bake it in a case iron pot over a peat fire