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Easy Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

A close-up of savory soda bread, sliced to show cheese and herbs baked inside.

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Make this savory, rustic loaf quickly. This no-yeast bread uses baking soda for rise and features sharp cheddar cheese and fresh herbs. It is perfect for serving with soups or stews.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 cup buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Lightly flour a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
  3. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, and thyme leaves until they distribute evenly through the dry ingredients.
  4. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk.
  5. Mix the ingredients quickly with a wooden spoon or your hands until just combined into a shaggy dough. Do not overmix; this bread relies on minimal handling for a tender crumb.
  6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it 3 or 4 times to bring it together into a round loaf shape, about 6 inches in diameter.
  7. Place the loaf on your prepared baking sheet. Score a deep cross into the top of the loaf using a sharp knife.
  8. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  9. Transfer the soda bread to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use brown soda bread by substituting 1/2 cup of the white flour with whole wheat flour.
  • If you do not have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of whole milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
  • This recipe is a fantastic yeast free bread baking option for beginners.

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