The Best Homemade Soda Bread Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade soda bread recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for beginners or anyone short on time. You’ll love how few ingredients it requires, making it a budget-friendly option for fresh bread anytime. The crust comes out beautifully golden, while the inside stays soft and tender, just like a bakery favorite. Plus, it’s ready to enjoy in less than an hour, so you can satisfy your bread cravings faster than you’d think!
Recipe

Homemade soda bread is a quick and easy bread recipe that requires no yeast, making it perfect for beginners or those short on time. Its simple ingredients result in a dense, slightly crumbly loaf with a crisp crust, ideal for pairing with soups, stews, or simply slathered with butter.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) buttermilk
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly flour a baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk.
- Stir the mixture until it forms a sticky dough, being careful not to overwork it.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.
- Place the loaf onto the prepared baking sheet and use a sharp knife to score a deep “X” on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
Notes:
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 ½ cups of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Sharp knife
- Wire rack
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
Irish
Serving:
1 loaf (serves 8-10)
Nutrition
Homemade soda bread offers a simple yet nutritious option for those seeking a quick bread recipe. Below is the nutritional information based on a typical serving size.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Total Fat | 2.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Total Carbs | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade soda bread with rich soups like creamy tomato or hearty beef stew—it’s perfect for soaking up every last bite. A slice topped with sharp cheddar or tangy goat cheese makes for a simple yet satisfying snack, too. Trust me, these combos will make your soda bread shine even more!
Classic Soup Pairings
When you’ve got a warm loaf of soda bread ready, pairing it with the right soup can turn a simple meal into something truly comforting. I love dunking thick slices into a hearty bowl of potato leek soup—the creamy texture pairs perfectly with the bread’s crusty exterior. Tomato soup is another favorite; its tangy, rich flavor complements the bread’s mild sweetness. On chilly nights, a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup feels like a hug, especially with soda bread on the side. These classic combinations never fail to hit the spot, making every bite feel like home.
Perfect Cheese Companions
Though soda bread shines on its own, pairing it with the right cheese takes it to another level. I love a sharp cheddar—its tangy bite contrasts perfectly with the bread’s mild sweetness. For something creamy, try brie or camembert; they melt just enough when spread on a warm slice. Goat cheese adds a zesty kick, while smoked gouda brings a rich, savory depth. Don’t forget blue cheese if you’re feeling bold—its bold flavor stands up to the bread’s hearty texture. Experiment with your favorites, and you’ll find the combo that makes your taste buds sing. Trust me, it’s worth it.