This classic eggless Irish Soda Bread is a simple, rustic loaf that’s tender inside, golden on the outside, and filled with sweet raisins in every bite. Made with pantry staples and no yeast, it comes together in minutes — no kneading, no rising, no fuss!
The secret? Cold grated butter and tangy buttermilk that create a perfectly soft crumb. Whether you’re baking for St. Patrick’s Day or want a cozy homemade bread to serve with soup or tea, this easy soda bread is pure comfort made simple.
Enjoy it warm from the oven with a slather of butter, honey, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt — or toasted the next morning for the perfect breakfast treat.
Why you’ll love this recipe!
What ingredients do I need?
- All-Purpose Flour – The sturdy base that gives the bread its classic dense yet tender crumb.
- Baking Soda – The key leavening agent that reacts with buttermilk to make the bread rise without yeast.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tangy buttermilk and salty butter.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and keeps the bread from tasting flat.
- Unsalted Butter (frozen and grated) – Creates rich, flaky layers and adds incredible flavor throughout the loaf.
- Buttermilk – The acidity activates the baking soda, helping the bread rise while keeping it moist.
- Raisins – Add bursts of sweetness and texture throughout the loaf (or swap for currants or cranberries).
- Softened Butter (for greasing) – Prevents sticking and adds a light golden edge to the crust.
Recipe Variations
- Classic (no raisins): Skip the raisins for a more traditional soda bread.
- Savory herb version: Add 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, or chives for a herby twist.
- Cheddar & chive: Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar and 1 tablespoon chopped chives for a savory bread.
- Sweet version: Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon for a lightly sweet breakfast bread.
- Whole wheat variation: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Pro Tips
- Keep your butter cold. Use frozen butter and grate it directly into the flour for the flakiest, softest texture.
- Don’t overmix. Once you add the buttermilk, gently mix until just combined — overworking the dough will make it dense.
- Check doneness. The loaf should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom and have a deep golden crust.
- Let it rest. Cool the bread for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing so the inside finishes setting and you don’t get a gummy center.
- Serve warm. Irish soda bread tastes best fresh out of the oven with a smear of butter or drizzle of honey.
Can I Substitute?
Yes! Like always though, substitutions can change the overall flavor and texture.
- Buttermilk: Substitute with 1 ¾ cups whole milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit 5 minutes before using.
- Unsalted butter: Salted butter works fine—just reduce added salt to ¾ teaspoon.
- Raisins: Try currants, dried cranberries, chopped dates, or golden raisins.
- All-purpose flour: You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed, though texture may vary slightly.
- Sugar: Use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for natural sweetness.
Leftovers and Storage
- Room temperature: Store cooled bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil for up to 2–3 days.
- To reheat: Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast lightly.
- Freezer-friendly: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze up to 3 months.
- Thaw at room temperature or toast before serving.
- Serving idea: Enjoy with butter, jam, or alongside soups and stews.
But, I Still Have A Few Questions…
Why did my bread turn out dense?
Overmixing the dough is the most common reason. Mix gently until just combined — lumps are fine!
Do I need a cast iron skillet?
No! A parchment-lined baking sheet or round cake pan works just as well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — use vegan butter and full-fat oat milk mixed with lemon juice to replace buttermilk.
How do I prevent the raisins from burning on top?
Press any exposed raisins gently into the dough before baking, or tent the loaf loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes if they start to darken. Although, I often forget to do this and I don’t mind, still tastes delicious!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It stays fresh for 2–3 days and tastes even better toasted the next day.
Can I freeze the dough?
It’s best baked fresh, but you can freeze the baked loaf for easy future breakfasts or snacks.
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Irish Soda Bread
Ingredients
- 4 1/4 c. all purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 7 tbsp unsalted butter frozen, grated
- 1 3/4 c. Buttermilk plus extra to brush
- 1 1/2 c. raisins
- 1/2 tbsp softened butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400F and grease a 9” or 10” cast iron skillet (or similar pan) with softened butter.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
- Grate in frozen butter and then use fingers to work it into the flour mixture to form little crumbs.
- Add in buttermilk and stir to combine. Add in raisins and mix again. Will likely need to use hands to work together until it is all just combined and form into an 8” round disc. Make sure not to over mix.
- Place in skillet and make a X on the top about 1” deep. Brush with extra buttermilk.
- Bake for about 45-50 minutes. Bake until golden brown. Bottom should sound hollow when tapped. Remove from oven and cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days at room temperature.
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Nutritional Content Disclaimer
I choose not to include nutritional information with my recipes, as these values can be calculated from the ingredients provided. With my background as a pediatric nurse practitioner and my own family experience with disordered eating, I understand how focusing on numbers can affect our relationship with food. My philosophy is that all foods have a place—sweet, savory, nourishing, or indulgent. I aim to share recipes that support a healthy, joyful approach to eating. My hope is that this space also encourages a balanced, healthy relationship with food for you and your family too.