Description
This loaf is a classic Irish soda bread that combines the tried-and-true texture of a quick bread with a hint of caraway seeds for a gentle lift in flavor. It’s sturdy enough to pair with hearty soups yet tender on the inside. The optional caraway seeds make it stand out in a subtle but satisfying way.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Baking sheet or cast-iron skillet
- Sharp knife
- Wire rack
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or 3 cups white + 1 cup whole wheat if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, adds a warm, aromatic note)
- 1/2 to 1 cup raisins or currants (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. If you prefer easy cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a cast-iron skillet.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar if you’re using it.
- Make a well in the center of your dry mixture. Pour in 1½ cups of buttermilk. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to form. If you need more moisture, add the remaining buttermilk one tablespoon at a time.
- Sprinkle in the caraway seeds if you’re looking for that mild twist. Raisins or currants are also optional. Fold them in carefully without overmixing.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead just enough to bring it together into a ball (about 5–8 turns). Overworking the dough can create a tougher texture, so keep it light.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and set it on your prepared baking sheet or skillet. Use a sharp knife to cut an “X” about ½ inch deep across the top. This helps the bread bake evenly.
- Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until it develops a rich golden crust. A good test is to tap the bottom of the bread. If it sounds hollow, it’s done.
- Cool the loaf on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter or jam.
Notes
Including caraway seeds brings a whisper of earthy fragrance to this traditional bread. It’s a small change, but it turns the loaf into something a bit more interesting without straying far from the roots of a straightforward Irish soda bread. If you prefer a plain version, simply leave out the seeds and enjoy a classic taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 loaf)
- Calories: 220
- Sodium: 300 milligrams
- Fat: 1 to 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 1 to 2 grams
- Protein: 6 grams