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Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 147 reviews

A rustic and flavorful cheddar and herb soda bread, perfect for a quick and delicious homemade loaf. Infused with fresh chives, thyme, rosemary, and sage, this soda bread combines the sharpness of cheddar with the aromatic punch of herbs. Quick to prepare with buttermilk and baking soda, it’s baked to a golden crust with a soft, tender crumb inside.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra as needed)
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt

Herbs and Cheese

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cups buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Preheat and combine dry ingredients: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  2. Add herbs, cheese, and buttermilk: Stir in the chopped fresh herbs—chives, thyme, rosemary, and sage—along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour in the buttermilk and gently mix until a sticky dough forms. Avoid over-mixing to ensure a tender bread.
  3. Shape the dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough lightly just a couple of times to bring it into a smooth ball, being careful not to over-knead so the bread rises properly. Pat the dough into a roughly 7-inch round shape.
  4. Prepare for baking: Lightly flour a baking sheet and transfer the dough onto it. Dust the top of the dough with a little more flour. Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross about ½ inch deep into the top of the dough—this helps the bread expand evenly while baking.
  5. Bake the bread: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake at 425°F for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 30 to 35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating it’s fully baked.
  6. Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and wrap it in a clean tea towel to cool. The steam will soften the crust for a tender bite. Slice and enjoy your cheddar and herb soda bread warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Do not over-knead the dough to prevent a dense loaf; a few gentle folds are sufficient.
  • Fresh herbs add the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted in smaller amounts if fresh are unavailable.
  • Ensure the baking soda is fresh to help the bread rise properly.
  • Wrapping the bread in a tea towel while cooling helps maintain a soft crust.
  • This bread is delicious served warm with butter or as a side to soups and stews.

Keywords: cheddar herb soda bread, savory soda bread, quick bread, Irish bread, homemade soda bread, cheddar cheese bread

Find it online: https://recipeswithmia.com/cheddar-and-herb-soda-bread-recipe/