This fast and easy Irish Soda Bread recipe requires no yeast, uses simple pantry ingredients, and bakes to perfection in under an hour. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike!

Fast and Easy Irish Soda Bread

This Irish Soda Bread is the perfect blend of simplicity and tradition. With just four basic ingredients, you can create a rustic, hearty loaf that pairs beautifully with soups, stews, or a simple spread of butter and jam…. or honey, if you are my husband. The golden crust and soft, tender crumb make every bite comforting and satisfying and the best part is that this is one bread recipe that is fast and easy.

What makes this soda bread truly special is its versatility. Whether you prefer a classic loaf, a slightly sweet version with raisins, or a savory twist with cheese and herbs, you can easily customize this recipe to your taste. Plus, with no need for yeast or lengthy proofing times, you’ll have fresh, homemade bread on your table in under an hour!

If you are baking for St. Patrick’s Day, don’t forget to check out my Baileys St. Patrick’s Day Cupcakes, Lucky Charms Marshmallow Treats, Irish Pub Potato Nachos and St. Patrick’s Day Baileys Cheesecake Bars.

A Short History of Irish Soda Bread

Irish Soda Bread dates back to the early 1800s in Ireland when baking soda became widely available. With limited access to yeast, Irish households relied on baking soda as a leavening agent, combining it with buttermilk to create a quick, affordable, and hearty bread. Traditionally, the bread was baked in a cast-iron pot over an open fire, giving it its signature rustic crust. Today, Irish Soda Bread remains a beloved staple, especially during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss bread recipe, Irish Soda Bread is a must-try! This traditional bread is quick to make, requiring no yeast or long proofing times. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Bread Recipe

Quick & Easy – No need to wait for dough to rise; just mix and bake.
Versatile – Enjoy it plain, sweet, or savory with different add-ins.
Perfect Texture – A crisp, golden crust with a soft and tender inside.
No Yeast Needed – Baking soda does all the work, making this bread easy and fast.
Minimal Ingredients – Made with pantry staples, so you can whip it up anytime.
Rustic & Flavorful – A hearty, slightly tangy bread with a golden crust and tender crumb.

Irish Soda Bread Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Butter
Sugar
Egg
Buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar/lemon juice as a substitute)

How Do You Make Irish Soda Bread

Preheat the oven to 400°F and butter your baking vessel or line with parchment paper.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, sugar and salt.

Cut in butter: Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut the cubes of cold butter into the flour mixture.
Add buttermilk: Whish together the egg and buttermilk and then gradually pour into the dry ingredients, mixing with a large wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
Shape the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and sprinkle with a bit more flour, gently knead it a few times (avoid over-kneading), and shape it into a round loaf as best you can .. the dough is sticky!
Score the top: Use a sharp knife to cut a deep cross (X) on top to help with even baking.
Bake Transfer your dough to your baking vessel and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool and enjoy: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Expert Tips:

Don’t Overwork the Dough – Mix just until combined to keep the bread tender.
Use Cold Buttermilk – This helps create a better rise.
Homemade Buttermilk – Anytime I buy buttermilk I end up throwing out the leftovers because I don’t need a whole quart of buttermilk for one recipe. Save the time and money and use the instructions I have added below to make your own buttermilk using just milk and vinegar.
Check for Doneness – Tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow when fully baked.

Variations and Add Ins:

Enhance your soda bread with these traditional and flavorful add-ins:

Currants or Raisins – Adds natural sweetness and a chewy texture.
Caraway Seeds – Provides a slightly earthy, anise-like flavor.
Dried Cranberries – A tart twist for a sweet variation.
Cheese (Cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère) – Gives a rich, savory depth.
Fresh or Dried Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, or Chives) – Elevates the aroma and taste.
Nuts (Walnuts, Pecans, or Almonds) – Adds crunch and extra nutrients.
Whole Wheat Option – Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and extra fiber.

What to Bake Irish Soda Bread In

Irish Soda Bread can be baked in various types of bakeware depending on the texture and crust you prefer:

Baking Sheet – For a classic round loaf with a crisp crust, bake directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cast-Iron Skillet – Helps retain heat evenly and creates a slightly thicker, rustic crust.
Dutch Oven – Mimics traditional open-fire baking, trapping steam for a softer inside and crispy outside. Cook with lid off.
Cake Pan – Provides structure for a uniform round loaf while still allowing for a good crust.

Storage and Freezing:

Room Temperature – Store your Irish Soda Bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing – Wrap in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.

How to Make Homemade Buttermilk

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute at home:

Pour 1 3/4 cups of milk (whole or low-fat) into a measuring cup.
Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly.

Use this homemade buttermilk as a perfect replacement in your Irish Soda Bread! It’s an easy way to save some money if you don’t have any other use for buttermilk this week.

Enjoy!