Description
Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a savory twist on the traditional Irish classic. This quick, no-yeast bread is filled with sharp cheddar cheese, fresh herbs, and a buttery crust. It’s tender on the inside, crusty on the outside, and perfect for soups, stews, or breakfast spreads.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (or green onions)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a cast iron skillet.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, parsley, chives, and thyme until evenly distributed.
- Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk and melted butter. Mix gently with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms — do not overmix.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 4–5 times to bring it together into a round loaf.
- Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross on the top of the dough.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter or alongside soups and stews.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle additional cheese on top before baking.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 1/2 cups of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- This bread freezes well — slice and wrap tightly for up to 2 months.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish