Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, especially when it’s a loaf as flavorful and easy to make as Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread. If you love homemade bread but don’t want to deal with the hassle of yeast, this is the perfect recipe for you. This soda bread is packed with the sharp, melty goodness of cheddar cheese and the earthy, fragrant touch of fresh herbs. It’s a simple, no-fuss bread that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even a cozy afternoon treat with a warm bowl of soup.
What is Soda Bread?
Soda bread is a classic quick bread that doesn’t require yeast for leavening. Instead, it relies on the reaction between baking soda and an acid—typically buttermilk—to create a light, fluffy texture. Traditional Irish soda bread is made with just four ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. However, modern variations, like this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread, incorporate additional ingredients for enhanced flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
- No yeast required – No waiting for the dough to rise!
- Quick prep and bake time – Ready in about an hour from start to finish.
- Packed with flavor – The combination of cheddar and fresh herbs creates an irresistible taste.
- Versatile – Pairs well with soups, stews, salads, or simply enjoyed with butter.
- Perfect for beginners – A great recipe if you’re new to bread-making.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dry Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon each chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups buttermilk (provides the acidity needed to react with the baking soda)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). This high initial temperature helps create a nice crust on the bread.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir together to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Add the Flavor
Add the chopped chives, thyme, rosemary, and sage to the dry ingredients. Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
Step 4: Incorporate the Buttermilk
Slowly pour in the buttermilk while stirring. Mix just until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently bring it together and knead it just a couple of times—enough to form a smooth ball but not too much, or the bread may become tough.
Shape the dough into a round 7-inch circle and place it on a lightly floured baking sheet.
Step 6: Score the Top
Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross (about ½ inch deep) into the top of the dough. This step is traditional in soda bread recipes and helps the bread bake evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
- Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.
- Reduce the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for 30 to 35 minutes.
- The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and wrap it in a clean tea towel while it cools. This step helps to soften the crust slightly, making it easier to slice.
Step 9: Enjoy!
Slice and serve warm with butter, soup, or even a drizzle of honey for a slightly sweet and savory contrast.
Tips for the Best Soda Bread
- Use fresh herbs – Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but you can use dried herbs if needed (just reduce the amounts by half).
- Don’t overwork the dough – Handle the dough gently to keep the texture light and fluffy.
- Score the top – The deep cross on top isn’t just for looks; it helps the bread bake evenly.
- Use high-quality cheddar – A sharp or extra-sharp cheddar will provide the best taste.
Variations to Try
- Garlic and Parmesan Soda Bread – Replace cheddar with parmesan and add minced garlic.
- Jalapeño Cheddar Soda Bread – Mix in diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Bacon and Cheese Soda Bread – Add crispy crumbled bacon for extra savory goodness.
- Whole Wheat Soda Bread – Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
What to Serve with Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
This bread is incredibly versatile! Here are some great pairing ideas:
- Soups & Stews – Serve alongside tomato soup, potato soup, or beef stew.
- Breakfast – Toast a slice and top with butter, jam, or scrambled eggs.
- Cheese Board – Enjoy with cheeses, olives, and cured meats.
- Salads – Pair with a fresh Caesar or garden salad.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the refrigerator: Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven before serving.
Final Thoughts
Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is one of the easiest and most delicious homemade breads you can make. With no need for yeast or proofing, this quick bread is ready in just over an hour. Its cheesy, herby goodness makes it a perfect companion for any meal. Whether you’re a beginner baker or just looking for a comforting homemade bread, this recipe is a must-try!
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🍞 Cheddar & Herb Soda Bread – A Comforting Classic!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling the kitchen. This cheddar and herb soda bread is a family favorite, bringing back memories of cozy afternoons and warm slices slathered with butter. It’s quick, easy, and requires no yeast—just mix, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for serving with soups, stews, or as a delicious snack on its own. Try it today and let the aroma take you back to heartwarming moments. ❤️
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tbsp each fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ¾ cups buttermilk
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 425°F.
2️⃣ In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in herbs and cheddar.
3️⃣ Add buttermilk and mix until combined.
4️⃣ Turn dough onto a floured surface, knead lightly, and shape into a ball.
5️⃣ Place on a floured baking sheet, dust with flour, and score a cross on top.
6️⃣ Bake for 15 minutes, then lower temperature to 375°F and bake for 30-35 minutes.
7️⃣ Wrap in a tea towel after baking for a softer crust. Enjoy warm!
Notes
👉 Perfect with butter, soup, or on its own! Who’s ready to bake? 🥖✨
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 8g