Rosemary Cheddar Irish Soda Bread

If you’re a lover of warm, hearty bread with a rich twist, you’re going to adore this Rosemary Cheddar Irish Soda Bread! It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and filled with aromatic rosemary and sharp cheddar pure comfort in a loaf. Whether you serve it alongside a bowl of soup, a rich stew, or simply slather it with butter, this soda bread is sure to become a household favorite. Trust me, you’re going to love this it’s a wonderful blend of simplicity and indulgence.

Why You’ll Love Rosemary Cheddar Irish Soda Bread

This recipe isn’t just about ingredients it’s about creating something warm, comforting, and rich in flavor. Whether you’re a bread-baking beginner or a veteran in the kitchen, this soda bread comes together quickly with no kneading, no waiting, and no fuss. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Great alongside soup, chili, or a hearty dinner.
Budget-Friendly: Few ingredients, maximum flavor perfect for a wallet-conscious loaf.
Quick and Easy: Requires no kneading or lengthy rise just mix, shape, and bake!
Customizable: Try adding herbs, different cheeses, or even chopped olives.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone from kids to adults will love this savory twist on a classic loaf.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of Rosemary Cheddar Irish Soda Bread it’s made with simple ingredients, but the result is rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Let’s break it down:

All-Purpose Flour: The base for this hearty loaf.
Baking Soda: The key to a nice rise without needing to wait for dough to proof.
Salt: To bring out all the rich flavors.
Buttermilk: Adds a wonderful tang and softness to the bread.
Cheddar Cheese: Gives it a rich, savory flavor use a nice sharp cheddar for the best taste.
Rosemary: Fresh or dried, it adds a wonderful aromatic depth to each slice.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below).

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this hearty, savory loaf:

Prepare Your Equipment:

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Fold in shredded cheddar and chopped rosemary.

Prepare Your Dough:

Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk. Mix just until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overwork it.

Shape Your Loaf:

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and form it into a round loaf. Score a deep “X” on the top — this lets the loaf expand nicely in the oven.

Bake:

Bake for about 30-35 minutes, until the loaf is a deep golden color and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Finish:

Remove from oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Serve and Enjoy:

Slice it thick and serve warm with a pat of butter or alongside your favorite meal.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 220

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Rosemary Cheddar Irish Soda Bread

This bread pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• A warm bowl of chili or potato soup
• Roast chicken or a hearty stew
• A wedge alongside a fresh garden salad
• Toasted with a bit of garlic butter for a savory snack
• As a base for a delicious grilled cheese sandwich

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Try adding other herbs, like thyme or chives, for a different twist.
• Experiment with different cheeses Parmesan or Gruyère can be wonderful here.
• Handle the dough as little as possible; overworking it can result in tough bread.
• If you want a crispier crust, bake it directly on a pizza stone.
• Store leftovers in a paper bag at room temperature for 2-3 days.

FAQ’s

1 Why is it called soda bread?
Because it uses baking soda instead of yeast to rise.

2 Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?
Of course! Parmesan, Gruyère, or mozzarella all work nicely.

3 Do I need fresh rosemary or can I use dried?
Dried rosemary works, but fresh adds a wonderful aromatic flavor.

4 What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

5 Why do we cut a deep “X” in the loaf?
It lets the bread expand while it bakes and cook evenly.

6 Can I freeze this bread?
Yes wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

7 How should I store leftovers?
Keep it in a paper bag at room temperature for 2-3 days.

8 Could I add other ingredients like olives or garlic?
Of course! Chopped olives, garlic, or sun-dried tomatoes can add wonderful texture and flavor.

9 Is this a heavy or light loaf?
It’s hearty, dense, and rich perfect for serving with savory foods.

10 Could I make this in a loaf pan instead of a round loaf?
Yes, you can shape it into a loaf and bake it in a greased loaf pan if you prefer.

Conclusion

Rosemary Cheddar Irish Soda Bread is a rich, hearty loaf that brings together sharp cheddar and aromatic rosemary in a crispy, savory package. Whether you serve it alongside soup, use it to make a savory sandwich, or simply enjoy it warm with a bit of butter, this soda bread is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. So grab your ingredients and let’s bake something wonderful together!

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