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    The BEST Irish Soda Bread

    Mar 10, 2022 · 130 Comments

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    I am so excited to share with you one of my favorite recipes! The BEST Irish Soda Bread recipe. I make this all year round! Wait till you see how much better this is that what you are most likley accustomed to.

    Sweet Cake-Like Irish Soda Bread

    I have been making (and eating) Irish Soda Bread for as long as I can recall.  I remember it being available from time to time in my house growing up and I remember my Grammy making it when I was a kid as well.  

    Check out my TikTok Video to see how you make my Irish Soda Bread

    I am not sure if I ever helped her make it or not, I would like to think that I did. I can say with confidence (as well as with a number of contests won, accolades from family, friends and neighbors and a feature on TODAY) that this is The Best Irish Soda Bread.

    O!!h And Joe Yonan, the Food Editor of The Washington Post, once told me that it was amazing and "the prettiest Irish Soda Bread he had ever seen".  If that doesn't make a girl feel great, well then I don't know what does! I brought two fresh loaves of my Irish Soda Bread with raisins to a blogger event a few years back, which is where he had it.

    It seems like everyone has some version of Irish Soda Bread floating from either a relative or friend. I am ½ Irish, so at family gatherings, I ate the obligatory slice. To my developing palate, the bread was dry and not that flavorful. So, I would pile on the butter - after all butter like bacon, makes everything better lol!  

    It wasn't until my 2nd cousin, Rosanne, came for a visit to my Grammy's (after she had married and moved to Boston) that I tasted something different in a soda bread.

    But THAT bread....the one made by Roseann's Italian husband's mother - That bread, was one to remember!  It was almost cake-like.  Sweet and light and all I knew was that "I" wanted more...I needed more!! So, after I polished off about 4 slices, shortly after I tinkered and tinkered until I replicated it and have been making it ever since.

    The BEST Irish Soda Bread! It takes less than 10 minutes to prep and 60 to bake. The result is a moist, sweet, cake-like Soda Bread of your dreams

    This really is The BEST Irish Soda Bread! One recent tweak I made to the recipe was to add some heavy cream to the dough.  

    I was lucky enough to spend an afternoon with the incredible Darina Allen (a visionary top chef and cookbook author from Ireland and owner of the world-renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School) and she said here in the US (as compared to Ireland) our milk/buttermilk does not have enough fat in it to replicate Irish baking correctly - She said to "always add cream to any type of soda bread".  As well as brown bread, scones etc.

    I tried it, loved it and updated my recipe.  Another thing Darina said was to "always let the faeries out" by making a cross or an "x" over top your dough before it heads into the oven.  I have always done that - but hearing someone else say it, especially someone from Ireland, makes me really happy!

    The BEST Irish Soda Bread! It takes less than 10 minutes to prep and 60 to bake. The result is a moist, sweet, cake-like Soda Bread of your dreams. Don't forget the butter!!

    Can you see in the above photo, how much more moist the actual bread looks than what you might typically come across??  And the sugar on the top?  Oh yeah, THAT right there is my Sweet Irish Soda Bread!

    This sweet Irish Soda Bread recipe is so close to how my relatives over in Donegal have made it for decades. This Irish soda bread recipe uses raisins, which I recommend for both flavor and texture.

    Let me tell you, there is almost nothing on this earth as good as a slice of this just out of the oven almost too hot to handle, smeared with butter (Especially Kerrygold Butter).  

    If you ever need a Calgon moment and you don't feel like getting wet to do it (ha!). Make "The BEST Irish Soda Bread" and a cup of tea, then sit with a good book...Ahhhh... You are welcome!

    To watch my 1 minute TikTok video on how to make this Irish Soda Bread Recipe, click here.

    If you are feeling festive and looking for additional ideas for St Patty's Day, check out my Irish Brown Bread recipe.

    And if you enjoy Bailey's Irish Cream...make your own.  All it takes are 6 ingredients and 5 minutes and you will never buy it again! You can also make Boozy Irish Cream & Oreo Shakes with it!

    Recipe originally published in 2013. Updated in 2022.

    Irish Soda Bread Recipe
    Print Recipe
    4.89 from 17 votes

    Sweet Irish Soda Bread

    Recipe for the BEST Irish Soada Bread the way some of my realitives make it in Ireland
    Prep Time10 mins
    Cook Time1 hr
    Total Time1 hr 10 mins
    Course: Breakfast, Dessert
    Cuisine: Irish,
    Keyword: Irish Soda Bread Recipe, Best Irish Soda Breat Recipe
    Servings: 8
    Calories: 710kcal
    Author: Colleen Kennedy

    Ingredients

    • 4 ½ cups of flour
    • 1 ¼ cup sugar
    • 2 ½ teaspoon baking powder
    • dash of salt
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • ½ cup butter melted
    • 2 ½ cups raisins
    • 2 cups buttermilk
    • ½ cup heavy cream
    • 1 large egg

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 350 degrees
    • To make 1 large loaf, use a 10-12 inch cast iron pan or ovenproof skillet with 2-inch or better sides or to make 2 loaves use 2 smaller cast iron skillets, oven proof pans or 2 cake pans.
    • Cut a big enough circle of parchment paper out to line both the bottom and the sides of your pan(s).
    • Whisk the first 5 ingredients in a large bowl until blended, add the butter and raisins and stir well.
    • Add buttermilk, heavy cream and egg to the dry ingredients and stir until incorporated - do not over mix.
    • Pour mixture into pan(s) and cook for one hour or until toothpick or skewer inserted comes out dry. For smaller loaves, check after 45 minutes, however, most likely it will take an hour to bake. Once a wooden skewer inserted comes out not "wet" it is done. Cool a bit then flip out of the pan(s), peel off parchment paper and allow the bead to cool on a cooling rack, that is if you don't just dig right in like my family and I do!

    Notes

    Since this recipe yields a large loaf, often when I am making this for someone, I set aside 25-30% of the batter to make my family a small one....which we eat almost instantly! Depending on its size I start checking the smaller loaf after 35 minutes or so - the large one usually still takes an hour.
    This is wonderful for days after you make it as long as you have had it wrapped up tight.  just pop a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to warm it through and smear it with butter.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 10g | Calories: 710kcal | Carbohydrates: 124g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 78mg | Sodium: 461mg | Potassium: 549mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 34g | Vitamin A: 702IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 182mg | Iron: 5mg


    More breakfast

    • Cranberry Soda Bread
    • Christmas Breakfast Bagels
    • Baked Pumpkin Donuts
    • Pumpkin Crunch Cake
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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Marie Matter says

      June 06, 2013 at 1:10 pm

      This sounds delicious, and it does look SO moist!

      Reply
      • Brenda says

        March 14, 2020 at 1:15 am

        5 stars
        I made this twice. Second time cut back on sugar by half and added 2tbs caraway seeds to counter the sweetness. Lovely texture. Even better toasted with some homemade blood orange marmalade. Yum

        Reply
        • Colleen says

          March 16, 2020 at 3:07 pm

          Ohhh, love the sound of that marmalade! Thanks for the comment!

          Reply
          • Valerie Green Schoen says

            November 22, 2022 at 4:12 pm

            In the video you sprinkled something… flake salt or course sugar?

            Reply
            • Colleen says

              November 22, 2022 at 4:55 pm

              Coarse sugar often called decorator sugar. Gives it a beautiful sparkle and crunch. You can find in Craft stores made by Wilton's or even at farmers markets or Amazon. I use white which is clear.

        • John says

          April 16, 2020 at 5:59 pm

          I was thinking that it was awfully sweet. Think Diabetes. I will try it with half of the sugar also. Orange marmalade would be a nice addition when serving. Thanks, Brenda and Colleen.

          Reply
          • Donna says

            June 16, 2020 at 3:01 pm

            I never liked soda bread never made it always bought it at the stores and always blah no taste and so dry but WOW just made this yesterday it’s delicious!! Best I ever had this is a winner recipe! Thank You!

            Reply
            • Colleen says

              June 19, 2020 at 6:41 pm

              Yay! So great to hear. It is special 🙂

    2. Heather says

      June 06, 2013 at 2:06 pm

      Yes please! I am going to have to make this! Stat!

      Reply
      • Charles McGrath says

        March 16, 2018 at 4:15 pm

        It looks like you add large grain sugar to the top, do you? Also, can I spray the pan with Pam, instead of using parchment paper?

        Reply
        • Suzanne says

          March 17, 2018 at 4:55 pm

          I used bakers joy spray on mine. Hope it works.

          Reply
        • Gina M. Conway says

          October 09, 2018 at 7:30 am

          I thought that too. Although it doesn't say to. I did anyway. Delish.

          Reply
    3. ginabad says

      June 06, 2013 at 2:24 pm

      Looks good, but I've found Irish Soda bread in the past to be sour. Is that correct, or am I getting it at the wrong places? Hello pudding cookies? I think I have a home for you .... 🙂

      Reply
    4. Heather Tullos says

      June 06, 2013 at 2:40 pm

      Hi, Colleen! I haven't made Irish soda bread in awhile-- my recipe calls for a super ton of buttermilk which aids in the dry-factor but I've never tried it sweet! I'm totally making this! Also- good call on the un-meltable baked goodies 🙂

      Reply
    5. Heather says

      June 06, 2013 at 4:45 pm

      Love breads with a little sugar on top! Yum!

      Reply
    6. Danielle @ DiningWithDani says

      June 06, 2013 at 7:22 pm

      I love Irish soda bread. This looks delicious. I drool just looking at the picture.

      Reply
      • Elizabeth says

        March 16, 2022 at 12:27 am

        Should I be sprinkling sugar on top like in the picture?

        Reply
        • Colleen says

          March 16, 2022 at 8:09 pm

          I like to, it makes it so pretty with a nice sweet crunch. I use coarse sugar like decorators sugar or sugar in the raw.

          Reply
    7. Susan says

      June 06, 2013 at 8:51 pm

      This does look incredible moist! I'm like you, I have a hard time choking down dry Irish soda bread and always smear it with butter, but this I could eat alone!

      Reply
      • Lisa Buckley says

        March 16, 2021 at 3:30 pm

        My daughter wanted green sugar crystals for our bread that we’re making for the first time tomorrow. Do you put it on top from the beginning, towards the end or after??

        Reply
        • Colleen says

          March 16, 2021 at 7:14 pm

          Sprinkle just before baking. Hope she has fun making the soda bread & That you all enjoy!

          Reply
    8. Jen @JuanitasCocina says

      June 07, 2013 at 12:38 am

      This bread looks amazing! Why have I never made a loaf of soda bread? YUM!

      Reply
      • Betty carey says

        March 15, 2022 at 11:06 am

        Can you freeze it

        Reply
        • Colleen says

          March 16, 2022 at 8:13 pm

          I have never frozen it however I can't see why not (after its cooked) to prevent ice crystals (which will form inside o matter what) get as much air out of however you are packaging it as you can. And be sure to freeze after it has completely cooled.

          Reply
    9. Joanne says

      June 08, 2013 at 12:41 pm

      I don't think I've ever had REALLY GOOD irish soda bread but I think it's about time I got some into my life! Love that this is so moist and oh so perfect for breakfast!

      Reply
    10. Laura says

      June 09, 2013 at 1:40 am

      Yum. I love sweet Irish soda bread!

      Reply
    11. Shaina Wizov says

      March 11, 2014 at 8:37 pm

      I am sooooo lucky to have been able to try this bread. It's delicious!

      Reply
    12. Danielle Royalegacy says

      March 12, 2015 at 4:06 pm

      Our milk does not have enough fat content? That's what happens when you get the government involved in telling us how to eat. Guess I have to get myself a Jersey cow and start milking it myself several times a day.

      Reply
      • Danielle Royalegacy says

        March 20, 2015 at 6:57 am

        I just wanted to let you know that I did make your recipe for St. Patrick's Day, and it is every bit as good as claimed! Best Irish Soda Bread we have ever had. This one is a keeper.

        Reply
        • Colleen says

          February 24, 2016 at 4:39 pm

          Awesome!!

          Reply
          • Lou says

            March 15, 2022 at 5:17 pm

            I used a 4 inch cast iron pot, no pan, and baked for 70 minutes…still slightly moist on toothpick…let it sit in turned off oven for 15 minutes and ok. Should I increase temp above 350 and/or use my cast iron pan. Still great taste…used Irish butter with honey in it. Thanks. Lou

            Reply
            • Colleen says

              March 16, 2022 at 8:10 pm

              4 inches wide? So it must have been very tall? I would say that is why it was still moist. Next time use an 8, 9 or 10 inch oven safe circular pan or pie dish.

      • Julie De Smith says

        March 18, 2021 at 12:14 am

        5 stars
        A Jersey cow?! Wow, you really know your fat content, lol.

        Reply
    13. Anonymous says

      March 12, 2015 at 7:40 pm

      St Patrick's Day bake off, soda bread, corn beef and cabbage and all the trimmings! what a day for an Irish woman!

      Reply
      • Lucy says

        March 18, 2022 at 9:42 pm

        Can it be made with gluten free flour?

        Reply
        • Colleen says

          March 23, 2022 at 3:39 pm

          I am sure it can, some on TikTok (on the video I shared) said they adapted it. I however don't really have experience baking GF.

          Reply
    14. Anonymous says

      March 14, 2015 at 8:34 pm

      It's like a giant scrumptious scone - the cream is the star ingredient! This is delicious!

      Reply
      • Virginia Simpkins says

        March 15, 2015 at 9:27 pm

        My family already ate 1/2 while cooling!!!! This is the best Irish soda bread ever!,
        Will be making this again and again!
        Thank you

        Reply
    15. Anonymous says

      March 20, 2015 at 10:55 pm

      sounds great very similar to my recipe, but what temperature does one use to bake the bread?

      Reply
    16. Holly says

      March 18, 2016 at 5:46 pm

      I don't have heavy cream on hand. That's the only thing I'm missing. Any substitute suggestions?

      Reply
      • Marie says

        March 16, 2022 at 2:13 am

        If I had no cream, I would substitute with an equal amount of mayonnaise…

        Reply
        • Colleen says

          March 16, 2022 at 8:08 pm

          If no cream, just use all buttermilk.

          Reply
    17. Jules says

      April 13, 2016 at 7:10 pm

      This was easy and delicious! Thank you so much. I've never made bread before so I was so happy to have the first time be a success!

      Reply
    18. Vikki welch says

      June 05, 2016 at 6:33 pm

      I am a 69 year old part Irish grandma and have been baking soda bread since my teens I was intrigued by this recipe , I followed the instructions and I thought it was a little on the thin side, it would not hold its shape so I did add a little more flour because eggs can vary but against my better judgement I went ahead and put it in my skillet and now that it has been in the oven for a few min it has begun to spill over the edge of my skillet, what did I do wrong or is it a wet dough, thanks so much

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        July 21, 2016 at 2:02 am

        Hi Vikki, It IS a wet dough, not thin just heavy and wet. It will not hold its shape, you can not form it. So try it again exactly as written and you should have yourself one delicious loaf to enjoy!

        Reply
    19. mary kay rogerss says

      March 05, 2017 at 9:27 pm

      When do you add the sugar on top and what type of sugar did you use?
      Looks delicious!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 14, 2017 at 8:21 pm

        I use coarse decorators sugar, which you can find at AC Moore or Michael, Sugar In The Raw or Turbindao works as well.

        Reply
    20. Genevieve says

      March 15, 2017 at 1:37 am

      There is an Irish restaurant nearby that serves grilled sweet Irish soda bread (no raisins), and it is the only place who makes it good! So, I'm hoping to try this recipe for St. Patty's Day... What kind of sugar do you use on top? And how do you get it to stick? When is it added in the process? Thank you!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 24, 2017 at 2:28 am

        I just use coarse decorators sugar...found ar AC Moore or Michael's. Sprinkle it over-top the dough just before you place it in the oven and ta-dah!

        Reply
    21. April O. says

      March 16, 2017 at 12:50 pm

      So excited to make this for our St. Paddy's dinner-I have used this wonderful recipe for 3 years and my kids have already been asking for it for a week!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 24, 2017 at 2:27 am

        Awesome! Makes me happy that the kids are into it...Just like my own 🙂

        Reply
    22. Diana says

      March 18, 2017 at 4:13 am

      Delish! I made it today for St Paddy's. Turned out sweet and moist and kids couldn't stop eating it. Thanks!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 24, 2017 at 2:26 am

        Great to hear!! Thanks for letting me know!

        Reply
    23. Annette oliver says

      March 30, 2017 at 11:42 pm

      Thank you for this wonderful recipe. I made this last year and a friend of my Son, who works in a bakery preferred it to what was made at her bakery. My son loved it so much he requested it as part of his birthday dinner. Thanks again!

      Reply
    24. Roseann says

      March 15, 2018 at 9:47 pm

      Hi Colleen, I searched for a sweet Irish bread and came across your recipe, which I saved on my IPad. I plan on making it tomorrow a little late for you to answer probably. My question is can you use an electric mixer just to incorporate the ingredients? I know I have heard never overmix it can toughen the dough! HAPPY ST PADDYS DAY🍀🍀

      Roseann....the Italian wife!!!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 16, 2018 at 2:01 pm

        Hi Rosann, I always do this by hand (and will be making 2 today!). It doesn't take long. You could use the paddle attachment on low and mix just until incorporated. enjoy!!

        Reply
        • Roseann says

          March 17, 2018 at 5:52 pm

          Thanks Colleen I always use the paddle even for my cookies. Well I couldn’t wait to get up this morning so I could try it, it is delicious!! Definitely a keeper. My cousin is on her way now to enjoy the bread with coffee and the rest of the family will have it for dinner tonight! I am sure your wondering why I didn’t take a piece last night? I am on WW & I give myself 1 day on the weekend to cheap....in moderation of course😂 I already had 2 peeps, love peeps and candy. So I am thinking I am being good all week, I may have another slice of bread tomorrow !!
          Enjoy your St Paddy’s Day, my DIL is a Kennedy also (maiden)
          Roseann

          Reply
          • Colleen says

            March 27, 2018 at 12:23 am

            You are a stronger woman that I am! Good for you! I need a little more will-power in my life! So happy you enjoyed it! Next time, I hope you get to have a piece warm from the oven!

            Reply
            • Roseann says

              March 30, 2018 at 4:27 pm

              Yep, so good I made another batch in 8 days 😁 My son and DIL welcomed another baby to the family, left them a loaf on the kitchen table to enjoy when they got home. Next time I think I am going to go heavier on the caraway seeds, love the flavor it adds!

        • Ellen says

          March 21, 2021 at 12:16 am

          5 stars
          Made this today! Delicious! So very moist. I used 2, 9 inch cake pans and used golden raisins instead of regular ones. I cut the sugar to one cup and it was perfect for us. They were done in 45 mins. Excellent recipe......thanks for sharing!

          Reply
          • Colleen says

            March 22, 2021 at 12:39 pm

            SO glad you enjoyed Ellen!!

            Reply
    25. Kevin Hershey says

      March 04, 2019 at 3:11 pm

      Hi Colleen,
      Thank you for your wonderful soda bread recipe. I would like to encourage you to rethink the name for your "Car Bomb Brownie" dessert. A car bomb refers to a terroristic weapon used by the Irish Republican Army, who violently (and bravely) fought for freedom for the 6 counties of Northern Ireland. People in Northern Ireland and in the Irish diaspora still live with with trauma in the aftermath of this conflict. Given that there was a car bomb explosion in Derry, NI last month, it is a shame to make light of the conflict by naming a delicious dessert after tool of guerilla warfare that has killed the family members and friends of many living people.

      Happy St. Patrick's Day,
      Kevin

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 05, 2019 at 12:17 am

        Thanks for your feedback Kevin. I totally get that, I was actually in Derry when I was 15 when one went off right by where we were. This dessert was named after the popular beer/whiskey drink. Let me see what I can do later this week.

        Reply
      • Brittany says

        March 17, 2022 at 2:12 pm

        Hi! Just wondering if if you have a gluten free version of this recipe?

        Reply
        • Colleen says

          March 18, 2022 at 5:28 pm

          I do not. I really do not have experience with GF baking.

          Reply
    26. Kevin says

      March 08, 2019 at 1:36 am

      Thanks for your reply, Colleen. I so appreciate your reconsidering. I know a bartender in Derry who responds to people from the U.S. who order that beer/whiskey drink by asking if they'd like a drink named after the explosion of the Twin Towers.

      Thanks again for the recipes and best wishes as you celebrate in the coming weeks!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 14, 2019 at 1:35 am

        Kevin, can you tell me what he calls that drink by any chance?

        Reply
    27. Jeannie Edgell says

      March 10, 2019 at 3:57 pm

      Hi Colleen. I was wondering, since my husband will NOT eat raisins, what you think might be a good substitute for them. Chocolate chips? Butterscotch chips ? Some type of Carmel or maple chips ?
      We are having our annual get together next Saturday with friends and this will be my first attempt at making soda bread !
      Any suggestions will be appreciated. Thank you.

      Sincerely,

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 14, 2019 at 1:24 am

        Men, lol! Well, I have made it with chocolate chips (ok but just not the same), I have made it with dried cranberries and lime (on my site). What I WOULD do....is make 1 recipe, split the dough into 2, make one loaf with raisins and the other with chocolate chips or without anything extra. That way others can have the real deal and he can have what he likes. Don't forget some butter. It really is magical warm!!

        Reply
    28. Kristina says

      March 15, 2019 at 2:31 am

      Hi Colleen!

      My mum really loves a sweeter soda bread so I’m itching to try your recipe! I’m curious about the softened butter, wondering how to ‘mix it in’ with all the dry ingredients without over-working the dough. I usually cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or grate frozen butter with a cheese grater. Any thoughts on that?

      Thanks!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 29, 2019 at 12:45 pm

        I just soften it up where its not quite melted and it smooths right into the batter. This is more of a thick batter vs a traditional dough. Hope you enjoy!

        Reply
    29. Roseann Barrato Young says

      March 16, 2019 at 7:27 pm

      Well here I am a year later and just pulled 2 loaves out of the oven! I put caraway seeds in one loaf because I like it!! I can’t wait for tomorrow to cheat on my diet! I am literally salivating! THANK YOU AGAIN AND HAPPY ST PADDYS DAY!🍀💚🍀💚

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 29, 2019 at 12:38 pm

        I love it! Hope you had a great day (and enjoyed the cheat!!, lol THAT is always fun!)

        Reply
    30. Larisa Yeomans says

      March 18, 2019 at 12:25 am

      I just baked the bread and it is AMAZING, What a revelation, I am truly thankful for your recipe. five stars! it is moist the texture is perfect, i baked it on a pizza stone and it developed the most amazing crust. You have made my day! God Bless You always!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 29, 2019 at 12:37 pm

        Fantastic! So happy to hear that Larisa! I make this throughout the year. None of us can go more than a couple months without it 🙂

        Reply
    31. Colleen says

      March 29, 2019 at 12:34 pm

      On top of the stove? I would love to try that as well. Vintage recipes passed down are the best! Hope you enjoy Sandra!

      Reply
    32. Jazmine says

      August 12, 2019 at 12:11 pm

      5 stars
      I made this recipe for a soda bread competition at work and won first place! Thank you for sharing! This really tastes so delicious, I ended up making 5 more loaves for my family!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        August 21, 2019 at 11:31 pm

        That's fantastic! SO funny, a number of people have messaged me over the years saying they won a competition with this recipe...Love it!!

        Reply
    33. Robin says

      January 20, 2020 at 5:37 pm

      Hi- just wondering if I could leave the raisins out? Would that affect the texture or change the baking time?

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        January 23, 2020 at 1:55 am

        Yes, you totally can leave them out. They just add some texture and a burst of sweetness. Traditionally currants are used.

        Reply
    34. Roberta says

      March 17, 2020 at 3:57 pm

      5 stars
      This recipe is a keeper! Family can't get enough. Turns out just like the pictures.

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 19, 2020 at 4:18 pm

        YAy! Glad to hear it Roberta! This is probably the one thing I have made more than any other in my life! Slainte!

        Reply
    35. Patty Bauer says

      May 14, 2020 at 1:04 pm

      Hello, In your blog you mentioned putting an "X" in the bread. However recipe does not mention that step and also the loaf pictured does not appear to have an X in it. Is that step not necessary

      Also have you tried making with half cup sour cream rather than heavy cream.

      One of the local grocery stores has an amazing sweet Irish soda bread and I keep trying to find a recipe similar to it. Going to give this a try today.

      Thanks!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        May 15, 2020 at 5:57 pm

        Hi Patty! You know I always show the "x" in my IG and FB Stories since I make ISB a lot. The "x" is not necessary, just tradition. I can update the steps since you pointed that out. I have not substituted sour cream for the heavy cream. The fat content in heavy cream is higher which is why I use that. I am sure sour cream would work as well. Good luck!

        Reply
    36. Sonia says

      March 14, 2021 at 12:48 am

      Is it sticky. ??? Mine dough was extremely sticky.

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 16, 2021 at 3:04 pm

        Yes, dough is very sticky. You can always add a li9ttle extra flour if its too wet however, as see in in my TikTok video, it should be sticky.

        Reply
    37. Marcia Noonan says

      March 14, 2021 at 3:55 pm

      This is just the recipe that I was searching for. I can't wait to make it. I will follow recipe as written but use currents instead of raisins. I would like to add crushed walnuts...would doing this interfere with the cooking time/texture in a negative way? I was thinking of using one half to one full cup. Could you please comment? My mother was a Murphy and I married a Noonan but I have never made Irish soda bread because I knew I'd like something sweeter with my tea! Thanks so much..can't wait to make this soon.
      Marcia

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 16, 2021 at 3:03 pm

        Hi Marcia, I have never made this with nuts (kids have nut allergies). I am honestly not sure what the nuts would add, however the addition of a a cup or under should not affect the baking time. Bake time is typically 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes. Maybe split the dough into two and make one with nuts and the other without. Bake time for that would be just under an hour to an hour. Let me know how it turns out if you do add the nuts, enjoy!

        Reply
    38. Cristina Kossegi says

      March 17, 2021 at 11:52 am

      I saw your tiktok and came here to find the full recipe. It's in the oven right now. I can't wait to cut into it. I made 1 big loaf but I'm going to cut it in half. The smaller half will go to my uncle, a retired irish priest living in a nursing home. I hope he likes it.

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 22, 2021 at 12:44 pm

        Awww, yes! That is what I love as well about this, sharing a loaf or 12! This is the recipe I gift the most (this and a few of my homemade boozy concoctions). I hope you and he enjoyed it! I also had two Irish priests and a nun (all from Ireland who moved to US) in my family!

        Reply
    39. JD says

      March 17, 2021 at 6:45 pm

      Delicious! I put some batter in a mini loaf pan because I only had a 9” cast iron. It was great!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 22, 2021 at 12:42 pm

        Perfect! Glad you enjoyed it JD!

        Reply
    40. Peggy Donavon says

      March 17, 2021 at 11:50 pm

      This recipe caught my eye, not only because it is a sweet bread, but also because your Grammy used to make it (I’m a new Grammy myself).

      I halved the recipe for just my husband and me, baked it in an 8” round cake pan, and sprinkled with coarse white sugar for extra crunch. It turned out perfect, and I will be baking this every year! Oh, and I did cut an “X” on top to let the fairies out!

      Thank you for sharing this family recipe; it’s delicious!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 22, 2021 at 12:41 pm

        Love it Peggy and congratulations!! There is noting quite as magical as a baby!! Enjoy being a Grammy!

        Reply
    41. Kali says

      March 18, 2021 at 9:05 am

      5 stars
      Made this yesterday and had the hardest time not eating it all myself! Used chopped dried dates instead of the raisins since they were what I had on hand and they were amazing! My new favorite indulgence 😊

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 22, 2021 at 12:40 pm

        Fantastic Kali! And yes, I fall victim to this myself, especially hot from the oven! Mmm-m!

        Reply
    42. Lisa says

      April 28, 2021 at 4:34 pm

      5 stars
      Just made this wonderful bread. I did cut the sugar to 1 cup after reading the comments. Came out great no I didn’t wait to cut because my house is smelling wonderful. Thank you

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        April 29, 2021 at 5:35 pm

        Fantastic!! It's a delicious bread to make all year long!! Glad you enjoyed it Lisa!

        Reply
    43. Denise Cassidy says

      May 11, 2021 at 11:45 am

      5 stars
      This is fantastic ! I added a tsp of Fiori Di Sicilia which is a combination flavor of citrus and vanilla. I believe in English it translates to: flower of Sicily. That add flavor is heavenly and I now call it my Italian/Irish Soda Bread which make perfect sense as I am of Italian/Irish decent. Thank you so much for this recipe. It is truly THE BEST !

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        June 04, 2021 at 1:19 pm

        Love this Denise!! Ciao

        Reply
    44. Amy W says

      March 12, 2022 at 4:17 pm

      5 stars
      Amazing bread. Since powdered buttermilk was what I had on hand, I just whisked the powder in with the dry ingredients and used two cups of water with the heavy cream. It worked beautifully. I also used half brown sugar and half white. Delightful.

      Thank you for a nice addition to our St Patrick's holiday.

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 16, 2022 at 8:16 pm

        Great to hear Amy! Thanks for the information about the powdered buttermilk. The only thing I have ever used that for is to flavor homemade potato chips (sour cream and onion). And now my local store no longer carries it.

        Reply
    45. Linda G. says

      March 13, 2022 at 11:13 am

      5 stars
      Just made it this morning. Use half and half instead of heavy cream. Outstanding. Used a 9” glass pie plate and another small baking dish. Small one was done at 35 mins. Larger one at an hour. Wow. This is a winner.

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 16, 2022 at 8:15 pm

        Fantastic to hear that Linda!

        Reply
    46. Liz says

      March 14, 2022 at 1:42 pm

      The bread is awesome....but your nutritional information has to be off. It says a 10gram serving has more than 700 calories? 10 grams is the size of your thumb. Can't be right.

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 16, 2022 at 8:14 pm

        It's an automatic nutrition calculator, let me go take a look.

        Reply
    47. Stephanie says

      March 15, 2022 at 11:40 am

      I have the soda bread in the oven baking as I type. The instructions say to add the raisins and butter and stir. Then add the other wet ingredients and stir until incorporated. However, this did not match the video demonstration. My butter clumped a little with the flour and then adding the wet cold ingredients made it worse. It was also a very wet consistency (not doughy at all). Fingers crossed it turns out well. I appreciate any feedback.
      Thank you for sharing this recipe!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 16, 2022 at 8:18 pm

        I have made this with both softened and melted. Since its easier with melted, I updated the recipe. Hope it came out ok.

        Reply
    48. Rebekka says

      March 15, 2022 at 12:31 pm

      Hi, I followed this recipe exactly (besides using half the amount of sugar)
      But it has been cooking for about an hour and a half and still not done. What did I do wrong ? I would like to try it again. Hopefully I didn't ruin it.

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 16, 2022 at 8:11 pm

        Hmmm, maybe it is al altitude thing (I am at 252 feet above sea level). So maybe a higher oven temp say 375 positioned on the middle rack.

        Reply
    49. James Dillard says

      March 16, 2022 at 3:43 pm

      How do you measure the flour? Spooning or scoop and pack against the side of the bag? Would you mind giving weights of flour and what kind you use?

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 16, 2022 at 8:08 pm

        I do not weigh the flour just scoop and shake off. This recipe is very forgiving. I use all-purpose flour for this recipe.

        Reply
    50. Patrick says

      March 16, 2022 at 10:37 pm

      This is actually the best recipe because it’s delicious. I’ve always wanted to like Irish Soda Bread but haven’t until this recipe! Thank you!!!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 18, 2022 at 5:26 pm

        Woot! I will take that! Thanks Patrick!!

        Reply
    51. Amanda says

      March 17, 2022 at 10:33 am

      Is there a purpose to melt the butter instead of cutting it in cold?

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 18, 2022 at 5:28 pm

        No purpose, its just a very forgiving recipe. I have never cut in in cold as I would for some other baking recipes.

        Reply
    52. Marie D says

      March 17, 2022 at 2:14 pm

      5 stars
      I did make this 'bread' this morning and it was fantastic, to say the least! I did make a few mods - I made a half recipe [and baked in a well greased 8" cast iron skillet] and still used the 1 whole egg, I only used 2 Tbs Sucanat [dehydrated cane juice[ and I added 1.5 tsp Cinnamon and some fresh grated Cardamom, I used 1 c Currants.... I also used Coconut cream and Almond milk w/cider vinegar in place of buttermilk... it was/is outstanding but in tasting it, it tastes/feels more like a cake since it is so moist/rich.... Yes, I will be making this again!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 18, 2022 at 5:26 pm

        Fantastic, thanks for the instructions on your twist 🙂

        Reply
    53. Ingrid says

      March 17, 2022 at 5:28 pm

      5 stars
      Look No Further for an Irish Soda Bread! You will be thrilled to put this one on the table.
      My family loved it! I baked it in a Le Creuset Dutch oven pot. Ohhh yum!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 18, 2022 at 5:25 pm

        Fantastic Ingrid!!! xo

        Reply
    54. Shirley says

      March 18, 2022 at 4:51 pm

      5 stars
      Wonderful sweet soda bread. Will be sure to add this to my tried, and must make again, recipes.

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 18, 2022 at 5:24 pm

        SO happy to hear that Shirley!

        Reply
    55. Jen says

      March 18, 2022 at 11:17 pm

      Your recipe is amazing.....I decided I wanted to try variations. I have done lemon - poppy seed (wowza), cranberry- orange, apple cinnamon, amaretto-almond...and I am moving onto garlic-onion and then jalapeno - cheddar next week. It is crazy how versatile it is. I am going to reduce the sugar for the hearty breads. Thank you - thank you - thank you!!!!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 23, 2022 at 3:38 pm

        You are very welcome! Yum!! All sorts of lovely flavors you are doing. One of my favorites is with Fresh Cranberries, amazing!! Maybe give that a go next Thanksgiving/Christmas! https://soufflebombay.com/cranberry-soda-bread/

        Reply
    56. Steve Pierce says

      March 23, 2022 at 1:14 pm

      5 stars
      Great recipe. Made this a couple of times. The latest time, I used craisins instead of raisins and added a teaspoon of rosemary.

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        March 23, 2022 at 3:35 pm

        Great! And sounds delish. The Rosemary is lovely! When cranberries are in season you must make Cranberry Soda Bread, it may be even better than this! Here is the link - https://soufflebombay.com/cranberry-soda-bread/

        Reply
    57. Fish says

      March 26, 2022 at 1:32 pm

      3 stars
      While the bread was good, it felt like it was a glorified cake and didn't have the traditional Irish soda bread texture and taste to it. It was super moist inside with a nice crust which was really delicious. If I try this again I'll put less sugar in it to help reduce the sweetness. Thanks for sharing this with us.

      Reply
    58. Jess Haygood says

      March 26, 2022 at 5:11 pm

      5 stars
      Wish I could post a picture! They came out absolutely beautiful, smelling amazing, and delicious. I used 2 8x4 loaf pans like the kind for banana bread and cooked 45 minutes, turned them 180°, and cooked 15 minutes more. I also used 1/2 cup dried blueberries, and 2 cups golden raisins because that's what I had available!!!! SO SAVING THIS!

      Reply
    59. Marie D says

      April 15, 2022 at 6:38 pm

      5 stars
      I made a 'half' recipe but used 2.25 c. flour and 1 large egg. I also added 1 tsp cinnamon and some fresh grated cardamom - I only used 2 Tbs sugar and instead of raisins, I used currants..... and used coconut cream as I'm dairy free. Loved, loved it! I baked it in a greased 8" iron skillet. The best I've ever had and most enjoyed the rich moistness of it!!
      Thank you for sharing this recipe!

      Reply
      • Colleen says

        April 20, 2022 at 1:05 pm

        Fantastic to hear!!

        Reply

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