Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a quick and tasty twist on classic soda bread, packed with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh herbs that give it a wonderful flavor and a comforting, hearty texture. This bread is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, making it perfect for sandwiches or just enjoying with a bit of butter.
I love how easy it is to whip up this bread when you want something fresh but don’t have time for yeast to rise. The combination of cheese and herbs always makes it feel special, and I find myself adding a little extra cheese because, well, cheese makes everything better in my book! The herbs add just the right pop of freshness.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is warm from the oven, slathered with butter and maybe a spoonful of jam if I’m feeling sweet and salty all at once. It’s also fantastic as a side with soups or stews, soaking up all those cozy flavors. If you want a little fun tip, try sprinkling a bit more cheese on top before baking for a crispy cheesy crust that’s so good.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This provides structure to your bread. You can swap it with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but the bread will be denser.
Baking Soda: This is the leavening agent that makes the bread rise quickly. Be sure it’s fresh for best results. If you don’t have it, baking powder can work, but use more to match the rising power.
Buttermilk: Its acidity reacts with baking soda to help the bread rise and adds a slight tang. No buttermilk? Use milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit 5 minutes.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a lovely punch of flavor. You can use other hard cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan if you want a different taste.
Fresh Herbs: Chives, parsley, and rosemary bring fresh, bright notes. Feel free to mix herbs depending on what you have—thyme or oregano work well too.
How Can I Ensure My Soda Bread Rises Well and Has a Tender Texture?
Soda bread hinges on the reaction between baking soda and buttermilk—getting this right is key.
- Mix Quickly: Combine wet and dry ingredients just until they bind. Overmixing develops gluten and makes the bread tough.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking soda isn’t expired, and your buttermilk is fresh for proper rising.
- Score the Top: Cutting a deep cross on top helps the loaf expand evenly while baking.
- Bake Immediately: Once mixed, bake right away because the leavening reaction starts quickly.
These tips help you get a bread that’s light inside with a crisp, golden crust, perfect for enjoying fresh.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to mix your dough comfortably without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your flour, cheese, and herbs just right.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring thick soda bread dough without bending.
- Baking sheet or tray – to bake the loaf evenly and get a nice crust.
- Sharp knife – for scoring the top of the bread so it rises well.
- Wire rack – helps the bread cool evenly without getting soggy on the bottom.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try swapping cheddar for smoked gouda for a subtle smoky flavor that pairs well with herbs.
- Add a handful of cooked bacon bits for a salty crunch that makes the bread even more filling.
- Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy bite that brightens the loaf.
- Replace the rosemary with fresh thyme or oregano for a different herb aroma that suits your preference.
How to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) buttermilk
- 1 ½ cups (150g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 large egg (optional, for richer dough)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick soda bread takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. Add 15 minutes for cooling before slicing. So, all together, you’ll need about 55-60 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Dry Ingredients:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar until well mixed.
2. Adding Cheese, Herbs, and Wet Ingredients:
Stir the grated cheddar cheese and chopped herbs (chives, parsley, rosemary) into the dry mix so everything spreads evenly. Next, make a small well in the center and pour in the buttermilk. If you’d like a richer bread, beat the egg into the buttermilk before adding. Mix everything just until the dough comes together—don’t overmix!
3. Shaping and Baking the Bread:
Lightly flour your surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently knead the dough a few times, then shape it into a round loaf about 7 to 8 inches wide. Place it on your baking sheet, and using a sharp knife, score a deep cross on the top. This helps the bread bake evenly and rise nicely. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
4. Cooling and Serving:
Once baked, transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool for at least 15 minutes. Slice and serve it warm or at room temperature, with butter or alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Can I Use Frozen Herbs for This Soda Bread?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture in the dough, which can affect the texture.
Can I Substitute Buttermilk in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 ½ cups of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How Should I Store Leftover Soda Bread?
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze slices and thaw as needed.
Can I Add Other Cheeses or Herbs Instead?
Definitely! Try swapping cheddar for smoked gouda, parmesan, or even a blend. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano also work great, depending on your taste preferences.
