Description
This comforting Irish Soda Bread recipe is quick to make and features sweet raisins or currants with a bright twist of orange zest. Its tender crumb and delightful sweetness make it perfect for cozy mornings, serving warm with butter, or paired with stews and preserves. Ideal for bakers of all skill levels, this traditional no-yeast bread is a beloved staple that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and brings warmth to any table.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for coating
- 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup cold buttermilk (or milk with vinegar as a substitute)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 cup raisins or currants, or a mix of both
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the bread does not stick and bakes evenly with a golden crust.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Butter: In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the cold unsalted butter pieces and mix on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring the butter is well incorporated.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate measuring cup, whisk together the cold buttermilk, egg, and grated orange zest. This mix adds moisture, richness, and a citrusy note to the bread.
- Add Wet Ingredients to Dry: Slowly pour the wet mixture into the flour and butter blend while the mixer is on low speed. Mix gently just until combined to form a sticky dough—avoiding overmixing is key to a tender bread.
- Prepare and Fold in Fruit: Toss the raisins or currants with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom. Fold the coated fruit evenly into the dough by hand.
- Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead it gently a few times just to form a smooth round loaf.
- Score and Bake: Place the loaf on the prepared baking pan. Using a sharp knife, score an X into the top of the dough; this helps with even baking and adds a classic look.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes. The bread is done when a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean, the crust is golden brown, and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Transfer the bread to a cooling rack and allow it to cool before slicing. Serve warm with butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon, or enjoy as part of a cozy meal.
Notes
- Serve warm with butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy treat.
- Make sure your buttermilk is cold to activate baking soda properly and achieve a tender crumb.
- Toss fruit with flour before folding to prevent sinking.
- Mix dough just until combined to avoid dense bread.
- Allow the bread to cool on a rack to set the crumb for easier slicing.
- Store wrapped in a towel at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze slices up to 3 months.
- Can substitute buttermilk with almond milk plus vinegar for a dairy-free version.
- Add nuts or spices like cinnamon for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Keywords: Irish Soda Bread, Raisins, Orange Zest, Traditional Bread, Quick Bread, No Yeast, Cozy Breakfast, Homemade Bread
