Grandma’s Irish Soda Bread

Simple, rustic, and rich with tradition, Grandma’s Irish Soda Bread is the kind of recipe that brings generations together. This no-yeast bread is delightfully crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, with just a touch of sweetness and a handful of raisins for that cozy, old-fashioned charm. It’s perfect for serving with tea, alongside soups and stews, or toasted with a pat of butter and jam.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get timeless family recipes and home-baked classics everyone loves.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy – No yeast, no rise time—just mix, shape, and bake
Old-Fashioned Flavor – Just like Grandma made, with traditional ingredients
Crusty and Tender – A hearty loaf with a soft, satisfying crumb
Versatile – Add raisins, currants, or make it savory with herbs
Perfect for Any Meal – Breakfast, lunch, or dinner—this bread fits it all

Ingredients You’ll Need
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional for a hint of sweetness)
1 ¾ cups buttermilk
½ cup raisins or currants (optional, but classic)
1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing after baking)

Tools You’ll Need
Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Sharp knife or bench scraper
Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar (if using)
Stir in raisins or currants if adding

Step 3: Add Buttermilk
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients
Pour in the buttermilk and stir just until a sticky dough forms
If the dough feels too dry, add another tablespoon or two of buttermilk

Step 4: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface
Knead lightly 5–6 times until it just comes together
Shape into a round loaf about 6–7 inches in diameter

Step 5: Score and Bake
Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet
Use a sharp knife to cut a deep “X” across the top
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom

Step 6: Finish and Cool
Brush the top of the hot bread with melted butter for a soft, flavorful crust
Let cool for 15–20 minutes before slicing and serving

Tips for Traditional Irish Soda Bread
Don’t over-knead – It should stay tender and slightly rustic
Use cold buttermilk – Helps the soda react quickly for a better rise
Flour your hands – The dough is sticky and rustic, not smooth like yeasted dough
Make it your own – Add orange zest, caraway seeds, or swap in whole wheat flour for half

Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with salted butter and jam for a cozy breakfast
Pair with a bowl of Irish stew or hearty soup
Slice and toast with honey or peanut butter
Enjoy with afternoon tea and fruit
Top with a slice of cheddar for a savory snack

How to Store and Reheat

Storing:
Store wrapped in foil or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
Refrigerate if your kitchen is very warm or humid

Freezing:
Wrap tightly in plastic and foil and freeze for up to 2 months
Slice before freezing for easy portioning

Reheating:
Toast individual slices or warm the whole loaf in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes—mix 1¾ cups milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes

Can I make it without raisins?
Of course! They’re optional and can be replaced with nuts, seeds, or nothing at all

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes—replace up to half of the flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture

Is Irish soda bread sweet?
Not typically, but some versions (like Grandma’s) include a bit of sugar and raisins for subtle sweetness

What’s the purpose of the “X” on top?
Traditionally, it’s said to let the fairies out, but practically, it helps the bread bake evenly

Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Irish Soda Bread is one of those recipes that feels like home. It’s humble, hearty, and filled with the flavors of tradition. Whether you’re baking it for St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday supper, or simply because you miss Grandma’s kitchen, this bread is sure to warm your heart and fill your home with the smell of something truly special.

Give it a try and keep the tradition alive—slice by delicious slice.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: Irish

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, 10 slices):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 4g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 320mg

Print