Irish Soda Bread Loaf (Printer-Friendly)
A golden crisp crust and soft texture come together quickly in this classic Irish soda bread loaf.
# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Bread
01 -
3 cups all-purpose flour
02 -
1 cup cake flour
03 -
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 -
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
05 -
1 ½ teaspoons cream of tartar
06 -
1 ½ teaspoons salt
07 -
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
08 -
1 ¾ cups buttermilk
→ Topping
09 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F and position oven rack at the lowest level.
02 -
In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt until evenly blended.
03 -
Add softened unsalted butter to dry ingredients and work it in using hands or a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
04 -
Pour in buttermilk gradually, stirring just until dough holds together without streaks of flour. If dough is too dry, add 1 to 2 tablespoons more buttermilk.
05 -
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently shape into a rough 6-inch round mound without overworking.
06 -
Transfer dough to a cast iron skillet and score a cross on the top about ¾ to 1 inch deep using a serrated knife.
07 -
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until crust is dark golden brown.
08 -
Remove bread from oven and brush the top with melted unsalted butter. Transfer to a rack and allow to cool for 30 to 45 minutes before slicing.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
For a less salty result, substitute salted butter but reduce added salt by ½ teaspoon.