Irish Soda Bread is a classic, no-yeast bread that’s quick and easy to make, yet full of rich flavor. This skillet version offers a crispy, golden crust and a tender, slightly dense crumb on the inside. The use of baking soda as the leavening agent, rather than yeast, gives the bread its characteristic texture. By baking it in a cast iron skillet, the bread develops a beautiful, rustic appearance, with a soft interior and a perfectly crunchy outer crust. It’s perfect for serving with butter and jam, or alongside hearty stews and soups.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk (or 1 tablespoon lemon juice mixed with milk to make 1 1/4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven while it’s preheating to ensure a nice, hot surface for baking.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Add the Buttermilk: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently with a spoon until the dough just comes together. The dough will be sticky.
- Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it just until it comes together (about 3-4 times). Shape it into a round loaf.
- Bake the Bread: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. If desired, brush the skillet with melted butter. Place the dough in the skillet and, using a sharp knife, score an “X” on the top of the dough. This helps the bread cook evenly and gives it the classic soda bread appearance.
- Bake: Return the skillet to the oven and bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the skillet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve your Irish Soda Bread warm with butter, or pair it with your favorite Irish stew for a satisfying meal. The skillet method creates a deliciously crisp crust that complements the soft, tender crumb inside!
