Cheddar Herb Soda Bread is a delightful, rustic bread that captures the essence of old-world Irish baking. With its golden crust and soft, cheesy crumb, this no-yeast bread is infused with sharp cheddar and fragrant herbs, making it the perfect companion for soups, brunches, or cozy afternoons. In just under an hour, you can create a loaf that not only satisfies your hunger but also elevates your cooking skills. Let’s get started on this easy cheddar herb soda bread recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Herb Soda Bread
This cheddar herb soda bread is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to make, taking less than an hour from start to finish. Second, it requires no yeast, making it perfect for beginners who are intimidated by traditional bread-making. Third, the use of sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the fresh herbs. Furthermore, this bread is versatile; you can serve it with soups, salads, or as a savory snack. The simple ingredients make it easy to whip up on a whim, and the aroma while baking is simply irresistible. Lastly, the fluffy texture ensures that each bite is a delightful experience. This is one of those easy cheddar herb soda bread recipes that you will want to keep coming back to!
Ingredients for Cheddar Herb Soda Bread
Gather these items:
- 200g (about 1 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 25g (about 2 tablespoons) cold butter, diced
- 75g (3/4 cup) grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (or parsley or thyme)
- 150ml (2/3 cup) buttermilk (plus extra if needed)
- A pinch of garlic powder or paprika
- Mixed herbs or finely chopped scallions
How to Make Cheddar Herb Soda Bread Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or grease your Dutch oven.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 3: Rub in cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped herbs.
- Step 4: Pour in the buttermilk and mix gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Step 5: Form the dough into a round shape and place it on the prepared tray or in your Dutch oven.
- Step 6: Cut a deep cross on top of the loaf to help it bake evenly.
- Step 7: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Step 8: Allow it to cool slightly on a wire rack, then serve warm with butter.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheddar Herb Soda Bread
Keep these in mind:
- This bread pairs excellently with soups and salads, making it a great addition to any meal. Roasted carrot soup is a perfect match!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk or adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs on top before baking.
- If you’re a beginner, remember not to overmix the dough; this ensures your bread stays fluffy.
Best Ways to Serve Cheddar Herb Soda Bread
Here are some serving ideas for your cheddar herb bread with buttermilk:
- Enjoy it warm with a generous spread of butter.
- Slice it thinly to make sandwiches filled with roasted vegetables or meats.
- Pair it with your favorite soup for a comforting meal.
How to Store and Reheat Cheddar Herb Soda Bread
To keep your homemade cheddar herb bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you have leftover bread, you can easily reheat it in the oven. Just wrap it in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore its crusty exterior and warm, cheesy interior, perfect for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar Herb Soda Bread
What’s the secret to perfect Cheddar Herb Soda Bread?
The key lies in the balance of ingredients and not overmixing the dough. This keeps the bread light and fluffy. Also, using fresh herbs enhances the flavor profile, making your herb-infused soda bread stand out.
Can I make Cheddar Herb Soda Bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for special occasions when you want to save time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheddar Herb Soda Bread?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure your ingredients are measured accurately, especially the flour. Also, remember not to over-knead the dough, as this can lead to a dense loaf rather than a fluffy cheddar and herb loaf.
Variations of Cheddar Herb Soda Bread You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with your loaf! Here are some delicious variations:
- Substitute cheddar with other cheeses like feta or gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Add sundried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
- For a spicy kick, incorporate jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Use whole wheat flour to create a heartier version of this traditional Irish cheddar herb soda bread.
Cheddar Herb Soda Bread: 5 Simple Steps to Perfect Loaf
Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a rustic, no-yeast Irish bread with a golden crust and soft, cheesy crumb. Infused with sharp cheddar and fragrant herbs, this easy small-batch recipe delivers homemade comfort and old-world flavor in under an hour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 200g (about 1 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 25g (about 2 tablespoons) cold butter, diced
- 75g (3/4 cup) grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (or parsley or thyme)
- 150ml (2/3 cup) buttermilk (plus extra if needed)
- A pinch of garlic powder or paprika
- Mixed herbs or finely chopped scallions
Instructions
- Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or grease your Dutch oven.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Rub in cold butter until crumbly. Stir in cheddar cheese and herbs.
- Add buttermilk and mix gently until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Form dough into a round and place on the prepared tray or in a Dutch oven.
- Cut a deep cross on top of the loaf to help it bake evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped underneath.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack and serve warm with butter.
Notes
- This bread pairs well with soups and salads.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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