This easy Irish soda bread is a quick and budget-friendly recipe that costs around $4–$6 NZD per loaf. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 1 hour, it’s soft, fluffy, and perfect for everyday baking.
Easy Irish Soda Bread (No Yeast, Ready in Under 1 Hour)
Ingredients
- 256 g whole wheat flour
- 256 g all-purpose flour
- 30 g cold butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 340 ml buttermilk
- 1 egg
- Oats (for topping)
Instructions
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix: Whole wheat, All-purpose flour and Salt
- Add the cold butter and lightly mix.
Prepare the Liquid
- In a separate bowl, whisk: buttermilk and egg
Combine
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Mix gently until just combined.
- Do NOT overmix — no kneading required.
Shape the Dough
- Transfer to a floured tray.
- Form into a round loaf and flatten slightly (about 4 cm thick).
Score the Bread
- Cut a cross on top and lightly pierce each section.
Finish
- Brush with leftover buttermilk and sprinkle oats on top.
Bake
- Bake at 200°C for 35–40 minutes until golden.
Video
Why you’ll love this Irish soda bread
– No yeast required — ready much faster than traditional bread
– Simple ingredients you likely already have at home
– Soft inside with a rustic, golden crust
– Perfect for beginners — no kneading or proofing needed
Tips for best results
– Do not overmix the dough — mix just until combined to keep the bread soft
– Use fresh baking soda for a proper rise
– If you don’t have buttermilk, mix milk with lemon juice or vinegar
– Score a deep cross on top to help the bread bake evenly
– Bake until golden and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped
Give your own Twist
– Add raisins or dried fruit for a sweeter version
– Mix in cheese or herbs for a savoury twist
– Use whole wheat flour for a more traditional rustic loaf
– Add seeds or oats on top for extra texture
You asked, We answered
Can I make Irish soda bread without buttermilk?
Yes, you can use milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
Why is my soda bread dense?
This usually happens from overmixing the dough or using old baking soda.
How do I know when it’s fully baked?
The bread should be golden and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I freeze Irish soda bread?
Yes, let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
How long does soda bread last?
It’s best eaten fresh but can last 2–3 days stored in an airtight container.
