Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to bake a bread that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then you absolutely must try this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread. It’s a rustic, flavorful loaf packed with fresh herbs and sharp cheddar cheese, combining simple pantry staples into a bread that’s both comforting and vibrant. The beauty of this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread lies in its simplicity and speed—no yeast or long proofing needed—just a handful of fresh ingredients and a little bit of love to create a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread comes down to a handful of essential ingredients that work together to create a hearty texture, wonderful flavor, and a beautiful golden crust. Each component is important, from the tangy buttermilk that reacts with baking soda for lift, to the fresh herbs that bring freshness, and of course the cheddar that adds a melty, savory surprise in every bite.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda: The leavening agent that makes the bread rise quickly without yeast.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the cheesy, herby notes.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives: Gives a mild oniony freshness and gorgeous flecks of green throughout.
• 1 tbsp each chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage: A fragrant blend of earthy herbs that elevates the bread’s aroma and flavor complexity.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds richness and a sharp, melty goodness that pairs beautifully with the herbs.
• 1 ¾ cups buttermilk: Provides moisture and acidity which reacts with the baking soda to give the bread its rise and tender crumb.

How to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Step 1: Mixing the Dry Ingredients and Adding Flavor

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F to ensure a hot and ready environment for your soda bread. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Next, fold in the chopped fresh herbs — the chives, thyme, rosemary, and sage — along with the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure they’re well distributed in the flour mixture. This creates a wonderfully fragrant dry base packed with flavor.

Step 2: Incorporating the Buttermilk

Pour the buttermilk into the dry ingredients and gently stir until the mixture just comes together into a sticky dough. It’s important not to overmix here; the dough will be a bit shaggy but that’s exactly what you want. The acidity in the buttermilk will react with the baking soda to give your bread the perfect rise and tender crumb.

Step 3: Shaping the Dough

Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Bring it together with your hands and give it a light knead just two or three times — overworking the dough can make the bread dense. Shape the dough into a smooth ball, then gently pat it into a circle about 7 inches wide. This shape helps it cook evenly with a nice crusty exterior.

Step 4: Preparing for Baking

Lightly flour a baking sheet and place your dough circle on it. Dust the top of the dough lightly with flour as well, then use a sharp knife to carefully score a deep cross about a half-inch into the dough’s surface. This scoring isn’t just decorative — it helps the bread expand while baking and creates that classic rustic look.

Step 5: Baking Your Bread

Bake the bread in your preheated oven at 425°F for 15 minutes to develop a gorgeous golden crust. Then lower the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and has a deeply browned crust. Wrap your bread in a clean tea towel and allow it to cool; the steam trapped inside softens the crust just enough for easy slicing.

How to Serve Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Garnishes

This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is lovely served simply with a pat of butter or a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil. Freshly chopped herbs sprinkled on top add a bright finish and enhance the aromatic qualities of the bread. For a little extra indulgence, try melting some extra cheddar cheese over warm slices just before serving.

Side Dishes

Because this bread is so flavorful on its own, it pairs beautifully with soups and stews, especially creamy tomato soup or a hearty vegetable stew. It’s also fantastic alongside a fresh salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. For a traditional touch, serve it with Irish butter and a bowl of strong, hearty stew to make any meal feel comforting and special.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread thick, then toast the slices and top them with smashed avocado and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a delicious breakfast or snack. Alternatively, use it as a base for open-faced sandwiches with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh dill. This bread is versatile enough to shine at brunch, dinner, or even as part of a festive cheese board.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread has fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to two days. Avoid refrigerating it as this can dry out the bread, but you can always toast the leftovers to bring back that fresh-baked texture.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this bread later, slice it before freezing so you can easily grab a few pieces when needed. Wrap the slices well in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. The bread will keep well for up to three months when frozen and still maintain its wonderful flavors.

Reheating

To reheat your Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread, simply toast the slices directly from frozen or warm the whole loaf in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10 minutes. Wrapping the loaf loosely in foil helps preserve moisture while reheating, delivering a crust that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside.

FAQs

Can I substitute cheddar for another cheese in this soda bread?

Absolutely! While cheddar provides a sharp, savory flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even a tangy blue cheese. Just keep in mind the texture and melting properties of your chosen cheese.

What if I don’t have buttermilk on hand?

You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 ¾ cups of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle before using it in the recipe.

How important are the fresh herbs in this recipe?

Fresh herbs really bring the Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread to life with their bright, aromatic flavors. While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh herbs will provide a more vibrant taste and beautiful color contrast.

Can I make this bread without scoring the top?

Scoring the loaf helps it bake evenly and creates the traditional soda bread look, but if you forget or prefer not to, the bread will still bake through and taste delicious—just expect a slightly different shape and crust texture.

Is this bread good for sandwiches?

Yes! The firm yet tender crumb and rich cheddar flavor make it an excellent choice for sandwiches. It holds up well to fillings and adds a flavorful twist to any sandwich you make.

Final Thoughts

Baking your own Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is like inviting a bit of homemade comfort into your kitchen, whether it’s for a simple snack or a centerpiece at the table. It’s straightforward, uses ingredients you might already have, and fills your home with an irresistible aroma that’s sure to bring a smile. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes one of your favorite breads to make and share with friends and family.

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