🖋️ Written by Emma
Why Make This Recipe
Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is an easy and delicious bread that brings warmth and flavor to your kitchen. It’s perfect for beginners and requires no yeast, making it quick to prepare. The combination of fresh herbs and sharp cheddar creates a delightful flavor in every bite. Enjoy it warm with butter or as a side to soups and salads.
How to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra as needed)
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 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
- 1 ¾ cups buttermilk
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir together.
- Add the chopped fresh herbs and shredded cheese to the bowl and mix well.
- Pour in the buttermilk and stir until combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured counter and knead lightly for a few times to form a smooth ball.
- Shape the dough into a ball and pat it into a 7-inch circle.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured baking sheet and dust the top with more flour.
- Use a sharp knife to score a cross into the top of the dough, cutting about ½ inch deep.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375°F and continue baking for another 30-35 minutes until fully cooked, sounding hollow when knocked on the bottom.
- After baking, wrap in a tea towel to cool.
How to Serve Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Serve Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread warm or at room temperature. It is fantastic with butter, olive oil, or your favorite spreads. Pair it with soups, stews, or salads for a complete meal, and watch your friends and family enjoy every bite.
How to Store Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
To store leftover soda bread, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can stay fresh at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the oven for a few minutes.
Tips to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
- Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
- Don’t over-knead the dough; just enough to form a smooth ball will do.
- Add more herbs or spices if you want to customize the flavor to your taste.
- Use different types of cheese like mozzarella or feta for a unique twist.
Variation
You can add ingredients like cooked bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for added flavor. Adjust the herbs and cheese according to what you have available in your kitchen.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
A: Yes, you can use regular milk. To mimic buttermilk, add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Q: How do I know when the bread is done?
A: The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The crust should be golden brown.
Q: Can I make this recipe without herbs?
A: Yes! You can skip the herbs if you prefer a simpler flavor or use your favorite seasonings.
Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir together.
- Add the chopped fresh herbs and shredded cheese to the bowl and mix well.
- Pour in the buttermilk and stir until combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured counter and knead lightly for a few times to form a smooth ball.
- Shape the dough into a ball and pat it into a 7-inch circle.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured baking sheet and dust the top with more flour.
- Use a sharp knife to score a cross into the top of the dough, cutting about ½ inch deep.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375°F and continue baking for another 30-35 minutes until fully cooked, sounding hollow when knocked on the bottom.
- After baking, wrap in a tea towel to cool.
