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Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 80 reviews

This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a delightful twist on traditional Irish soda bread, infused with fresh herbs like chives, thyme, rosemary, and sage, and packed with sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a quick bread that doesn’t require yeast or rising time, making it perfect for an easy homemade loaf with a tender crumb and a crusty exterior. Ideal for serving alongside soups, stews, or as a flavorful snack.

Ingredients

Scale

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 Ingredient

  • 1 ¾ cups buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Mix Dry Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  2. Add Herbs and Cheese: Stir in the chopped fresh chives, thyme, rosemary, sage, and shredded cheddar cheese evenly through the dry mixture.
  3. Incorporate the Buttermilk: Pour in the buttermilk and stir gently until the dough just comes together and is evenly moistened. Avoid over-mixing to ensure the bread remains tender.
  4. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Lightly knead a couple of times to bring it into a smooth ball, being careful not to over-knead as it can affect rising. Pat the dough into a 7-inch diameter circle.
  5. Prepare for Baking: Lightly flour a baking sheet and transfer the shaped dough onto it. Dust the top with a little more flour. Using a sharp knife, score a cross about ½ inch deep into the top to help the bread bake evenly.
  6. Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F. Then lower the temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  7. Cool Properly: Remove the bread from the oven and wrap it in a clean tea towel to cool. This steaming method softens the crust slightly for the perfect texture. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Do not over-knead the dough, as it can make the bread tough and hinder rising.
  • Use freshly chopped herbs for the best flavor impact.
  • Buttermilk is essential for activating the baking soda to help the bread rise and adds a subtle tang.
  • The scoring on top allows steam to escape, preventing uneven baking or cracking.
  • Wrap the bread while warm to keep the crust soft; leave it uncovered if you prefer a crunchier crust.

Keywords: Cheddar soda bread, Herb bread, Irish bread recipe, Quick bread, Cheddar and herb loaf, Traditional soda bread, Oven baked bread

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