Real Irish Soda Bread Recipe

A simple Irish classic with an optional American twist

Traditional soda bread requires only four ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. In many American kitchens, raisins and a small amount of sugar are added to create a rustic loaf with a light sweetness. To make the traditional Irish version, simply omit the sugar and raisins and follow the same method. Serve warm slices with softened, salted organic butter.

Makes one 6-inch loaf

Ingredients

3½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour; more as needed
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon table salt
1 cup raisins
1½ cups buttermilk; more as needed

Instructions

1. Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 450°F. Lightly flour a large rimmed baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Stir the raisins into the flour mixture and make a well in the center.
4. Pour the buttermilk into the well.
5. Using your fingers or a fork, gently mix the buttermilk into the flour mixture until a soft dough forms. Add additional buttermilk one tablespoon at a time if needed. The dough should come together but remain slightly sticky.
6. Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf about 6 inches wide and roughly 2 inches high in the center.
7. Turn the loaf so the floured side faces up. Using a sharp knife, score a cross about ¼ inch deep across the top of the loaf. This allows the bread to expand evenly as it bakes.
8. Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 400°F and continue baking for about 25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing. Letting the bread cool fully finishes the internal cooking process and prevents a gummy texture.