Cheddar And Herb Soda Bread: The Ultimate Soda Bread Recipe

Name: Cheddar And Herb Soda Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs; 4 ounces medium or sharp cheddar cheese, diced small; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon melted butter; 0.25 cup pine nuts

Introduction to Cheddar And Herb Soda Bread

There’s something undeniably comforting about freshly baked bread. The aroma wafting through the house, the warmth radiating from the oven, and the anticipation of that first slice all contribute to a delightful experience. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread—a quick, easy, and delicious option that will elevate any meal. This bread is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion!

A Personal Story Behind My Cheddar And Herb Soda Bread Journey

Growing up, my grandmother often made soda bread, and it quickly became a staple in our household. I remember the joy of helping her mix the ingredients, feeling the dough come together, and the pride of serving our family a warm loaf straight from the oven. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various ingredients, and this Cheddar and Herb version has become a favorite. It combines the classic taste of soda bread with the richness of cheese and the freshness of herbs, creating a delightful treat that brings back memories every time I bake it.

What Makes This Cheddar And Herb Soda Bread Recipe Special?

This recipe shines for its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious soda bread that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, savory flavor, while the fresh herbs provide a burst of freshness. Plus, it comes together quickly—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Enjoying a slice with butter is a must!

The Full Cheddar And Herb Soda Bread Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
4 ounces medium or sharp cheddar cheese, diced small (about 1/4-inch)

1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
1 tablespoon melted butter

1/4 cup pine nuts

Instructions

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly sprinkle it with flour to prevent sticking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium-large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. This helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.

Add flavor elements: Stir in the chopped herbs, diced cheddar cheese, and pine nuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
Combine wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and the egg until well mixed. This will add moisture and richness to your bread.
Form the dough: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the buttermilk and egg mixture. Gently stir until just combined, making sure not to overwork the dough.

Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a generously floured work surface. Coat the dough with flour by turning it several times. Shape it into a round loaf. If the dough is sticky, don’t hesitate to add a bit more flour to your work surface.
Prepare for baking: Transfer the loaf to the prepared sheet pan. Using a sharp serrated knife, cut an X on the top of the loaf—this helps it bake evenly.
Bake the bread: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the top is a nice golden brown.

Finish and cool: Remove the bread from the oven and brush the top with melted butter for a lovely shine. Allow it to cool for about 20 minutes before slicing. Serve thick slices with a pat of butter for a delightful treat!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheddar And Herb Soda Bread

This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is incredibly versatile! It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, and stews. You can also use it as a base for delicious sandwiches. For added flavor, consider mixing in different herbs such as dill or chives. If you want a spicier kick, try incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños. Another great variation is to add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist. The options are endless!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar And Herb Soda Bread

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
No, but if you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for about 10 minutes.

How do I store leftover soda bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can use dried herbs instead, but use only about 1 tablespoon since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Is it necessary to cut the X on top of the loaf?
Yes, this step is important as it allows the bread to expand while baking and results in a nice texture.