Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is incredibly easy to make, perfect for novice bakers and busy cooks alike. It features a delightful combination of fresh herbs, cheddar cheese, and a tender, crumbly texture that pairs perfectly with just about anything. The best part? This soda bread comes together quickly and requires no waiting time for rising — just mix, shape, score, and bake! Plus, the addition of fresh herbs and cheese elevates the flavor, making this an irresistibly savory treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 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

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir to mix.

3. Add the chopped fresh herbs and shredded cheddar cheese to the dry ingredients.

4. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead lightly for just a couple of times to bring the dough together. Avoid over-kneading to ensure the bread rises properly.

6. Shape the dough into a ball and gently flatten it into a 7-inch circle.

7. Dust a baking sheet with flour and transfer the dough to the sheet. Lightly flour the top of the dough.

8. Using a sharp knife, score a cross into the top of the dough, cutting about ½ inch deep.

9. Bake the bread for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 30-35 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. After baking, wrap the soda bread in a tea towel to cool. This helps soften the crust and lock in the moisture.

11. Enjoy your Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread fresh from the oven!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1 loaf

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 45 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Cheese options: Swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

• Herb variations: Feel free to get creative with your herb choices — basil, oregano, or even parsley would work wonderfully in this recipe.

• Add-ins: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even nuts to give your soda bread extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread in an airtight container or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the bread in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes to warm it up. You can also toast individual slices for an extra crispy treat.

FAQs

1. How do I know when soda bread is done?

The bread will sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, which is a good indicator that it’s fully cooked.

2. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While buttermilk adds flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with regular milk if necessary. You can also create a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk.

3. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It’s also great for freezing!

4. Why did my soda bread turn out dense?

This can happen if the dough is over-mixed or over-kneaded. Be sure to mix just until combined and avoid handling the dough too much.

5. Can I freeze Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread?

Yes, you can freeze the bread! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw and warm in the oven.

6. Can I add more cheese to the bread?

You can! If you prefer a more cheesy loaf, feel free to add extra cheese to the dough. Just be mindful not to overwork the dough.

7. How can I make the crust softer?

To soften the crust, wrap the cooled bread in a clean kitchen towel after baking. The steam will help create a tender crust.

8. Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours. However, for best results, it’s recommended to bake it the same day for optimal texture.

9. Can I make this recipe without fresh herbs?

If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used in place of fresh herbs. Use about 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe when substituting.

10. Can I add garlic to the bread?

Yes, adding garlic can enhance the flavor of the bread. You can mix in minced garlic or garlic powder to taste.

Conclusion

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is an easy-to-make, flavorful bread that’s perfect for any occasion. With its cheesy richness and fragrant herb mix, this bread is a crowd-pleaser that will complement any meal. The best part is that it comes together quickly, with no yeast or rising time required. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or as part of a larger spread, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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