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Easy Cheddar & Herb Irish Soda Bread

A quick and delicious loaf made without yeast, featuring sharp cheddar, fresh parsley, and mild herbs, ideal for a variety of meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: Irish
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2.75 cups all-purpose flour Can replace half with whole wheat for a healthier option.
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup buttermilk Can substitute with thin plain Greek yogurt.
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.25 cup melted butter Slightly cooled. Can use margarine.
Flavor Ingredients
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley Chopped.
  • 0.5 Tbsp dried chives
  • 0.5 tsp dried dill
  • 6 oz shredded sharp white cheddar cheese

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a cast iron skillet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix in the parsley, chives, dill, and cheese with a fork until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and cooled melted butter.
  5. Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredients into the center. Use a fork to mix until the ingredients start to combine, then use your hands or a spatula to finish mixing into a dough.
  6. If the dough is too wet, sprinkle with a little extra flour and bring together into a ball.
  7. Place the dough in the middle of the skillet and gently reform into a ball, making sure not to push it out to the sides.
  8. Make an 'X' in the top of the dough with a serrated knife.
Baking
  1. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 28-33 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. If the top gets too brown, cover with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
  3. Remove the bread from the skillet using the parchment paper and place it on a cooling rack. Optionally brush with melted butter immediately.
  4. Let the bread cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

This soda bread is versatile and can be served warm with butter or olive oil. Pairs well with soups and salads.