Nana Dot’s Irish Soda Bread Recipe
Nana Dot’s Irish Soda Bread is a cherished family recipe, passed down through generations. Made with simple ingredients, this traditional Irish bread is slightly sweet, tender, and perfect for breakfast or alongside hearty meals. No yeast required—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 loaves (about 24 slices
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- ½ cup butter, cut into pieces
- 1 cup raisins
- ½ cup currants
- 2 teaspoons caraway seeds (optional)
- ¾ cup milk
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease two baking sheets.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Incorporate Butter: Cut in butter using a pastry blender or hands until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.
- Add Fruits & Seeds: Stir in raisins, currants, and optional caraway seeds.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix milk and apple cider vinegar. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir until just moistened.
- Knead Dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead gently 8-10 times.
- Shape & Bake: Divide into two loaves, shape into balls, and place on prepared baking sheets. Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes, then reduce to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 more minutes.
- Cool & Serve: Let cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a Sweeter Bread: Increase sugar to ½ cup and add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
- Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier taste.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
