Cheddar and Chive Irish Soda Bread
A delightful Irish soda bread that combines sharp cheddar cheese and fresh chives, perfect for any occasion with its golden crust and cheesy interior.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Sift for lighter bread if desired.
- 1 tsp Baking Soda Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- 1 tsp Salt Balances the flavors, don't skip it.
- ½ tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground for the best flavor.
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder (optional) Use sparingly to not overpower chive flavor.
Wet Ingredients
- 1¾ cups Buttermilk Shake well before measuring.
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter Keep it cold for a flaky texture.
Cheese and Herbs
- 1½ cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Grate fresh for best melting qualities.
- ½ cup Fresh Chives Use fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to achieve a perfect, golden crust.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1 tsp salt.
- Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of chopped chives into the dry mixture.
- Add 4 tbsp of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mix, and rub until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly pour in 1 ¾ cups of buttermilk, mixing gently until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times to shape into a round loaf.
Baking
- Transfer the loaf to a parchment-lined baking sheet and cut a deep 'X' on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Serving
- Serve warm, cut into wedges or slices with butter or jam.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; freeze tightly wrapped for up to 3 months.