Name: Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra as needed); 1 ½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives; 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme; 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary; 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 ¾ cups buttermilk

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Introduction

This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread combines rustic charm with a savory twist. Loaded with fresh herbs and sharp cheddar cheese, it’s quick to make and perfect for any meal or snack. Enjoy a warm slice fresh from the oven for a comforting treat.

A loaf of bread is sliced to show its inside and placed on a wooden board. The bread has a rough, golden-brown crust with some white flour dust on top. Inside, the bread is light yellow with green herb pieces and small air pockets throughout, giving it a soft and fresh texture. The background is filled with green pine branches and frosted pinecones, creating a cozy, wintery feel. The whole setup rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra as needed)
1 ½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
1 tbsp chopped fresh sage
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 ¾ cups buttermilk

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir them together evenly. Add the chopped fresh herbs and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined.
Step 2: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently bring it together and knead lightly just a couple of times to form a smooth ball. Avoid over-kneading to ensure proper rising. Shape the dough into a 7-inch diameter circle.
Step 3: Lightly flour a baking sheet and transfer the dough onto it. Dust the top of the dough with some flour. Using a sharp knife, score a cross about ½ inch deep into the surface of the dough.
Step 4: Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F. Continue baking for another 30 to 35 minutes until the bread is fully baked. It will sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 5: Once baked, wrap the soda bread in a clean tea towel to cool. The trapped steam will soften the crust. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

Substitute cheddar with a sharp white cheddar or try a smoked cheese for extra flavor.
Use dried herbs if fresh are unavailable, but reduce quantity by half.
Serve with butter and a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory treat.
For a lighter bread, sift the flour before mixing to incorporate air.

Storage

Store your soda bread wrapped in a tea towel or in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its crust. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a warm oven before serving to refresh the texture.

How to Serve

A round, rustic loaf of bread with a golden-brown crust dusted lightly with white flour, showing deep cuts that reveal a textured, slightly crumbly inner layer with hints of green herbs and melted cheese. The bread rests on a thick, round wooden board with natural bark edges, surrounded by green pine needles and brown pinecones on a wooden table. The overall setting gives a cozy, earthy feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, but to mimic buttermilk acidity, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 ¾ cups of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Why shouldn’t I over-knead the dough?

Over-kneading soda bread can make it dense and heavy because it relies on baking soda for leavening rather than yeast. Light kneading keeps the bread tender and allows it to rise properly.