Freshly baked Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread on a wooden cutting board.

Why Make This Recipe

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a simple yet delicious recipe that brings a delightful twist to traditional bread. It’s easy to make, requires no yeast, and rises beautifully thanks to baking soda. This bread is perfect for any meal, making it a great addition to family dinners or gatherings with friends. It’s not only tasty but also quite versatile; you can enjoy it warm with butter, serve it alongside soups and stews, or even use it for sandwiches.

How to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra as needed)
1 ½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
1 tbsp each chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 ¾ cups buttermilk

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt; stir together.
Add the chopped fresh herbs and the shredded cheese.
Pour in the buttermilk and stir until combined.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured counter. Bring the dough together and knead lightly just a couple of times to make a smooth ball. Avoid over-kneading, as this can affect the rise of the bread.
Shape the dough into a ball and pat it out into a 7-inch circle.
Lightly flour a baking sheet and transfer the dough onto it. Dust the top with more flour.
Use a sharp knife to score a cross into the top of the dough, cutting about 1/2 inch deep.
Bake the bread for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375°F. Continue baking for another 30 to 35 minutes until it’s fully baked. The bread will sound hollow when you knock on the bottom.
After baking, wrap the soda bread in a tea towel to cool. This steam will help soften the crust.

How to Serve Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is wonderful served warm right out of the oven. Spread some butter on a slice for a tasty treat. It pairs well with soups or salads, and you can use it for sandwiches too. Feel free to enjoy it however you like!

How to Store Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Store any leftover soda bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, and then place it in a freezer bag. Thaw it at room temperature before enjoying.

Tips to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise.
Use a light hand when kneading; this helps the bread stay tender.
Feel free to mix different herbs based on your preference or what you have available.
For a richer flavor, you can use sharp cheddar cheese.

Variation

You can try adding other ingredients to customize your soda bread. For instance, diced jalapeños can add a spicy kick, while sun-dried tomatoes can bring a Mediterranean flair.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, but the bread may not be as tender. If you have vinegar or lemon juice, you can sour your milk by adding 1 tablespoon of either to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.

2. Why is my bread dense?
If your soda bread turns out dense, it may be due to over-kneading the dough or using old baking soda that didn’t provide enough lift.

3. How do I know when the bread is done?
The bread is ready when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check the internal temperature; it should be around 200°F.