Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe

If you are searching for a bread recipe that’s comfort in every crumb, then you absolutely must try this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread. It combines the rustic charm of traditional soda bread with the rich, savory notes of sharp cheddar and a fragrant bouquet of fresh herbs, creating a loaf that feels both timeless and thrillingly fresh. Whether you’re new to soda bread or a long-time fan looking for a flavor upgrade, this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread makes a delicious, golden centerpiece that’s quick to prepare and simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple pantry staples, yet each one plays a vital role in building the incredible flavor and texture of this loaf. The flour provides structure, the baking soda lends rise without fuss, and the fresh herbs bring brightness alongside the cheddar’s wonderful tang.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the hearty base of the bread and ensures a satisfying chew.
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda: Perfect for a gentle rise, soda bread uses baking soda as a quick leavening agent.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the richness of cheese.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives: These add a subtle oniony bite and lovely green flecks.
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage: An aromatic trio that infuses the bread with deep herbal notes.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, cheddar gives the bread a savory punch and beautiful golden pockets.
• 1 ¾ cups buttermilk: It not only moistens the dough but reacts with baking soda to create tender crumb and a mild tang.

How to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients with Herbs and Cheese

Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 425°F to get it ready. Combine your flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl, stirring them together well for even distribution. Next, fold in the fresh, chopped herbs along with the shredded cheddar cheese. These fresh elements deliver bursts of flavor throughout every slice, giving the bread its signature vibrancy. Finally, pour in the buttermilk—a key ingredient that activates the baking soda and brings the dough together in a tangy, moist mix.

Step 2: Bring It Together and Shape

Turn your sticky dough out onto a floured surface. Gently bring it together with your hands and knead only a couple of times. This is important: minimal kneading keeps the bread tender rather than dense. Shape the dough into a roughly 7-inch circle, which will bake into that classic rustic soda bread shape. You’ll love the tactile feel of this dough—it’s rustic but very manageable.

Step 3: Score and Prepare for Baking

Lightly flour a baking sheet to prevent sticking, then transfer your dough circle onto it. Dust the top with a bit more flour, which helps form a pretty crust. Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross into the dough, about half an inch deep. This scoring is not just decorative—it helps the bread bake evenly and gives the iconic soda bread look.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the loaf for 15 minutes at your initial high heat to help it rise rapidly and set a crispy crust. Then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and bake for another 30 to 35 minutes. The key to knowing it’s done is that hollow sound when you tap the bottom of the loaf—music to every baker’s ear!

Step 5: Cool Wrapped in a Tea Towel

Once out of the oven, wrap your bread in a clean tea towel while it cools. This ingenious step traps steam that softens the crust slightly without sacrificing that lovely outer crunch. It’s the final flourish that makes this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread so utterly delicious.

How to Serve Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Garnishes

A few fresh herb sprigs make a beautiful garnish when serving. You could even brush the crust lightly with melted butter or a bit of olive oil to boost its golden sheen before baking. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right on top also adds a perfect finishing touch that elevates each bite.

Side Dishes

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups like tomato bisque, creamy chowders, or rustic vegetable stews. It’s also fantastic alongside a fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette or with whipped butter and seasonal jams for a lighter snack. The bread’s robustness means it can stand up to rich or simple accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Try toasting slices and serving them with melted cheese for a quick snack, or use it as a base for sandwiches loaded with grilled veggies or roast meats. You can also cube leftover bread, toss it with olive oil and herbs, then toast for flavorful croutons that add crunch to salads and soups. The possibilities are surprisingly plentiful!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread wrapped in a tea towel or stored in a bread box at room temperature to maintain moisture and crust texture. It will stay fresh for about 2 days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week without dry crumbs.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight freezer bag. When you want some, thaw at room temperature before reheating. Freezing is a fantastic way to always have a loaf on hand for those spontaneous cravings.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes. If reheating a whole loaf, sprinkle a little water on the crust and heat wrapped in foil for 10–15 minutes. This brings back softness inside while keeping a crisp crust outside.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk in the recipe?

Yes, you can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps activate the baking soda and tenderize the bread. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using for best results.

What herbs work best if I don’t have fresh ones?

While fresh herbs deliver the best flavor, dried herbs can work in a pinch. Use about one-third of the quantity if substituting dried for fresh, and add them directly to the flour mixture.

Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! Sharp cheeses like Gruyère or aged Parmesan add wonderful depth. Mild cheeses might not provide the same punch but can still be delicious depending on your taste.

Why is it important not to over-knead the dough?

Over-kneading develops too much gluten, making the bread tough rather than tender. Soda bread should have a light touch to keep the texture soft and crumbly.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The best test is to gently tap the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, it’s done. The crust should be a rich golden brown and firm to the touch.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is one of those effortless recipes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its simple ingredients come together to form something profoundly satisfying and full of personality. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try—you’ll find it’s the perfect bread for sharing, snacking, and savoring any time of day.

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