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Irish Soda Bread Recipe Easy Homemade Irish Soda Bread with Honey Butter Spread

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A quick and easy Irish soda bread with a golden crust and tender crumb, served with a sweet honey butter spread. Perfect for cozy breakfasts, brunches, or comforting snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (120g) whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 ¾ cups (420ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
  • 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tablespoons (60ml) honey

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease your cast iron skillet.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Cut the softened unsalted butter into small pieces and rub it into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Slowly add the buttermilk, stirring gently with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together. The dough will be sticky; do not overmix.
  5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 3-4 times to form a rough ball.
  6. Flatten the dough slightly and shape it into a round loaf about 7 inches (18 cm) in diameter. Place it on the prepared baking sheet or skillet.
  7. Score a deep cross about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) deep across the top of the dough with a sharp knife.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  9. While baking, mix softened unsalted butter with honey until smooth and creamy to make the honey butter spread.
  10. Transfer the bread to a cooling rack and let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with honey butter spread generously on top.

Notes

Do not over-knead the dough to avoid tough bread. Use fresh baking soda for best rise. Tent bread with foil if browning too quickly. Let bread cool before slicing for better texture. Honey butter can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish soda bread, homemade bread, quick bread, honey butter, easy bread recipe, St. Patrick's Day, brunch bread