Authentic 4-Ingredient Irish Soda (Printable)

Rustic Irish soda bread with a golden crust and tender crumb, perfect for breakfasts or stews.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
03 - 1 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Wet Ingredients

04 - 1 3/4 cups buttermilk

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly flour the surface.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well incorporated.
03 - Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the buttermilk and stir gently with a wooden spoon until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
04 - Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead briefly just until it comes together—avoid overworking. Shape into a round, slightly flattened loaf about 2 inches thick. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
05 - Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross across the top of the loaf. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
06 - Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to ensure proper texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No yeast, no waiting, no fuss—just wholesome comfort on the table in under an hour
  • The golden crust gives way to the tenderest interior youve ever pulled apart
  • Its impossible to mess up, making it perfect for nervous bakers and confident cooks alike
02 -
  • Over-kneading is the enemy here—work the dough just enough to bring it together, and no more
  • The X cut isnt just traditional, it helps the heat penetrate the center and encourages proper rise
  • Wait until the bread cools before slicing, or youll end up with a dense, disappointing texture
03 -
  • Use room temperature buttermilk for the best rise and most tender texture
  • The hollow sound when tapping the bottom is your doneness indicator—trust it over the clock
  • Freeze baked loaves whole, sliced, or as cubes for future recipes

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