11 Must-Bake Breads for Winter Celebrations and Beyond

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Irish Soda Bread

Simple, hearty, and packed with rustic charm, Irish soda bread is a dense and flavorful bread that comes together in no time. Traditionally made without yeast, it gets its rise from baking soda, resulting in a tender crumb with a slightly crisp crust. Ideal for the holidays and best served warm, it’s a simple yet timeless bread that’s sure to delight.

Ingredients (for 1 loaf):

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 ¾ cups buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a cast-iron skillet for baking.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the buttermilk to the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 1-2 min., just until it comes together. Form the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or skillet.
6. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep "X" into the top of the dough. This helps the bread cook evenly and gives it its traditional appearance.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 min., or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let it cool slightly before slicing.