Brian Brophy's Irish Soda Bread

Bring a taste of Ireland to your kitchen with Brian Brophy's Irish Soda Bread, a rustic and easy-to-make classic perfect for any occasion. Made with simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, baking soda, and buttermilk, this traditional bread requires no yeast or lengthy proofing—just 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes in the oven. Cold cubed butter creates a tender, flaky crumb, while an optional handful of raisins adds a touch of sweetness for an authentic Irish twist. A signature cross scored on top ensures even baking and pays homage to the bread’s heritage. Serve it warm, slathered with butter or jam, for a comforting homemade treat that’s ready to elevate your breakfast, snack, or teatime.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 4 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1.75 cups Buttermilk
• 1 large Egg
• 1 cup Raisins (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

Step 3

Add the cubed cold butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4

If using raisins, fold them into the mixture to evenly distribute them.

Step 5

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until combined.

Step 6

Gradually pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix—it should be soft but not sticky.

Step 7

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it into a ball shape.

Step 8

Place the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross (about 1/2 inch deep) on the top of the bread. This allows it to bake evenly and traditionally symbolizes a blessing for the bread.

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 10

Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter or jam, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1227.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3129.7

Total Fat 73.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 40.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.8g
Cholesterol 390.5mg	0%
Sodium 4236.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 548.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.5g	0%
Total Sugars 148.6g
Protein 75.6g	0%

Vitamin D 303.8IU	0%
Calcium 702.1mg	0%
Iron 26.5mg	0%
Potassium 2453.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 20.9%

Protein: 9.6%

Carbs: 69.5%