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Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 15 reviews
  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 6 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 51 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf, about 8 slices
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Irish

Description

A delightful Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread featuring a blend of fresh chives, thyme, rosemary, and sage, combined with tangy buttermilk and sharp cheddar cheese. This quick and easy bread, with a golden crust and tender crumb, is perfect for savoring warm with butter or alongside soups and stews.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra as needed)
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt

Herbs and Cheese

  • 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

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cups buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Mix Dry Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  2. Add Herbs, Cheese, and Buttermilk: Incorporate the chopped fresh herbs—chives, thyme, rosemary, and sage—along with the shredded cheddar cheese into the flour mixture. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until the dough just comes together.
  3. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it only a couple of times to create a smooth ball; avoid over-kneading to ensure proper rise. Form the dough into a ball and then flatten it into a 7-inch diameter circle.
  4. Prepare for Baking: Lightly flour a baking sheet and transfer the dough onto it. Dust the top surface lightly with flour. Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross about ½ inch into the dough’s top, which aids even baking and appearance.
  5. Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 30 to 35 minutes or until the bread is fully cooked and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  6. Cool the Bread: Once baked, remove from the oven and wrap the bread in a clean tea towel. Allow it to cool this way; the steam trapped will soften the crust for a tender exterior. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Do not over-knead the dough; minimal kneading ensures the soda bread remains tender and rises well.
  • Scoring the dough deeply helps the bread expand properly and creates the traditional soda bread look.
  • Wrapping the bread in a tea towel after baking softens the crust without losing its texture.
  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs can alter the texture and taste.
  • Ensure baking soda is fresh for proper rising of the bread.

Find it online: https://suerecipe.com/cheddar-and-herb-soda-bread-recipe/