Irish Brown Soda Bread Recipe

Irish Brown Soda Bread Recipe

6 servings
My Mum’s Irish Brown Soda Bread is a hearty, traditional loaf made with just 7 ingredients and ready in an hour—perfect for tea or breakfast.

Ingredients

  • whole wheat flour

    fine ground

    1 ¾ c
  • all-purpose flour
    1 ¾ c
  • baking soda
    1 tsp
  • salt
    1 tsp
  • cold butter

    cubed

    2 tbsp
  • egg

    at room temperature

    1 large
  • buttermilk
    1 ⅝ c
  • rolled oats
    1 tbsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 425°F (215°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.

  2. 2

    Mix together the flours, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. Add the butter and rub it into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles course bread crumbs.

  3. 3

    In a separate jug, whisk the egg and buttermilk together.

  4. 4

    Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the liquid.

  5. 5

    Using an open hand, bring the flour and liquid together to a loose dough. The dough should be quite soft and a bit sticky. If your dough is a little dry then add a splash more buttermilk.

  6. 6

    Turn the dough onto a floured work surface and gently bring the dough together in a ball. Flatten it into an 7-inch round, about 1 inches thick.

  7. 7

    Place on the baking sheet and score the bread by blessing it with a deep cross on top (see video). Poke a hole in the 4 corners of the bread to release the fairies and stop them from cursing your beautiful bread.

  8. 8

    Glaze the bread with the leftover bit of buttermilk in your jug and scatter the rolled oats on top.

  9. 9

    Bake for 15 minutes, then turn down the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 30 minutes more. When done, the loaf will sound slightly hollow when tapped on the bottom. Remove from the baking sheet and place on a wire rack to cool.

  10. 10

    Once cooled, slice the bread and enjoy with butter. Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Irish Brown Soda Bread Recipe

Irish Brown Soda Bread Recipe

65 min6 servings183 cal

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About this Recipe

Discover the Authentic Taste of Traditional Irish Brown Soda Bread

There's an undeniable comfort in a freshly baked loaf, and my Mum's Irish Brown Soda Bread recipe delivers just that – a taste of authentic tradition, made simple. In just about an hour, you can pull a wonderfully hearty and rustic loaf from your oven, perfect for any occasion. With only 7 straightforward ingredients, this recipe proves that truly delicious food doesn't need to be complicated.

This specific Irish Soda Bread stands out for its perfect balance of texture and wholesome flavor. We use a thoughtful blend of fine ground whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour, creating a satisfyingly dense yet tender crumb that defines a great traditional Irish Soda Bread. The magic of buttermilk and baking soda provides its signature lift, while cold butter cubes add a subtle richness that enhances the natural goodness of the grains. The sprinkle of rolled oats on top adds a beautiful finish and an extra hint of texture.

This versatile bread is an absolute joy. Imagine it warm, slathered with butter and jam alongside your morning tea, or as the perfect accompaniment to a hearty Irish stew or a comforting bowl of soup. Its simple elegance and robust flavor make it an instant family favorite, perfect for everyday enjoyment or special gatherings. Embrace the ease and deliciousness of baking your own Irish Brown Soda Bread today!

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