Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a wonderful twist on a classic quick bread, bringing together the sharpness of cheddar cheese with the fresh flavors of herbs. It’s got a lovely crumbly texture on the inside with a golden, crusty outside that just begs to be broken apart. This bread is super easy to make because it doesn’t need any yeast or long rising times—just mix, shape, and bake!
I love making this bread when I want something cozy but a bit different from plain loafs. The cheddar melts slightly while baking, creating pockets of cheesy goodness in every bite, and the herbs add a bright touch that really lifts the flavors. I usually sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before it goes into the oven—it makes the crust extra tasty and inviting.
My favorite way to enjoy this soda bread is warm, right out of the oven, slathered with butter that melts into the soft crumbs. It’s perfect alongside soups or stews on chilly days, or just wrapped up for a picnic. I’ve found that sharing a fresh loaf of this bread always brings a smile, making any meal feel a little more special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour works great for this bread’s texture. For a nuttier flavor, try half whole wheat flour, but keep an eye on moisture—it may need a bit more buttermilk.
Baking Soda: This is the key leavening agent here, so don’t skip it. If you don’t have baking soda, you could try baking powder, but the rise won’t be quite the same.
Buttermilk: It reacts with baking soda to help the bread rise. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar with 1 ½ cups milk, let it sit for 5 minutes, then use as a substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides that lovely bold flavor. Feel free to use mild cheddar if preferred, or swap in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and dill add brightness. You can use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available—just reduce the amount by about half.
How Can I Get the Perfect Crust and Tender Crumb in Soda Bread?
Getting the texture right means balancing a crisp crust with a soft crumb. Here’s what helps:
- Mix gently: Overworking the dough can make it tough. Stir until just combined.
- Shape carefully: Lightly knead just a couple of times on a floured surface to hold shape.
- Score the top: Cutting a deep “X” lets steam escape and helps the loaf bake evenly.
- Use a hot oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C) for a strong initial heat that forms the crust.
- Check doneness: The bread should sound hollow when tapped and have a nice golden color.
Letting the bread cool slightly before slicing keeps the crumb from being gummy. A bit of patience here makes all the difference!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to hold all ingredients and give you room to mix dough comfortably.
- Wooden spoon – perfect for stirring the sticky dough without overworking it.
- Baking sheet – use a rimmed one to catch any drips and give the bread a nice flat base.
- Sharp knife – for scoring the dough so it bakes evenly and looks great.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredients just right for the best texture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cheddar for smoked gouda for a mellow smoky twist that pairs well with herbs.
- Add ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy flavor boost.
- Mix in ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives to add a mild onion flavor that complements the cheese.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or finely minced fresh garlic for a richer savory note.
Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bread:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, finely chopped (such as parsley, thyme, and dill)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 to 40 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 45 to 55 minutes from start to finish. There’s no rising time since it’s a quick soda bread, so you can enjoy fresh bread in less than an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar. This makes sure everything is combined and ready for the wet ingredients.
3. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped fresh herbs evenly throughout the dry mix to give your bread its flavourful touch.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until smooth and blended.
5. Make the Dough:
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gently mix until a sticky dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and light.
6. Shape the Loaf:
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Lightly knead just a couple of times to bring it together. Shape into a round loaf about 6 inches (15 cm) wide.
7. Score the Dough:
Place the loaf on your prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep “X” on top—this allows the bread to bake evenly and develop a nice crust.
8. Bake the Bread:
Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the bread is a golden brown colour. Tap the bottom of the loaf—it should sound hollow. You can also test with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean.
9. Cool and Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and place on a wire rack to cool slightly. Slice and serve warm with a pat of butter to enjoy its full flavour and texture.
Can I Use Frozen Herbs in This Soda Bread?
Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs with frozen ones. Just use about half the amount since frozen herbs tend to be less potent. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding to the dough.
Can I Substitute Buttermilk in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with enough milk to make 1 ½ cups. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to mimic buttermilk’s acidity that activates the baking soda.
How Should I Store Leftover Soda Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, slice and freeze the bread; toast slices straight from the freezer for a quick snack.
Can I Add Other Cheeses or Flavors?
Yes! Feel free to swap cheddar for cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or feta. You can also add extras like chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or garlic for different flavor profiles.
