Cheddar Herb Soda Bread

Name: Cheddar Herb Soda Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 ¾ cups buttermilk

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: February 8, 2026

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Introduction to Cheddar Herb Soda Bread

Picture this: it’s a busy evening, and you want to whip up something delicious that’ll impress your family without taking hours in the kitchen. Enter my cherished Cheddar Herb Soda Bread. This savory loaf, infused with delightful cheddar cheese and fresh herbs, is not only simple to make but also bursting with flavor. It pairs perfectly with a cozy soup or stands beautifully on its own. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this quick recipe can transform any meal into a heartfelt feast. I promise, you’ll savor every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Herb Soda Bread

This Cheddar Herb Soda Bread is your answer to home-cooked goodness in a flash! It’s incredibly easy to make, meaning even on your busiest days, you can still bring warmth to the table. The rich flavors of cheddar meld beautifully with fragrant herbs, creating an irresistible aroma. Plus, it’s versatile enough to complement any dish, from hearty stews to a simple butter spread. Your family will be begging for seconds!

Ingredients for Cheddar Herb Soda Bread

Let’s dive into what makes my Cheddar Herb Soda Bread so delightful! Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients you’ll need. Remember, the exact measurements can be found at the bottom of the article for printing.

Cheddar cheese: Provides a rich, creamy flavor that melts in your mouth. Feel free to experiment with sharp or mild cheddar based on your preference.
Fresh sage, thyme, chives, rosemary: These fragrant herbs bring a burst of freshness. You can mix and match or even use dried herbs if you’re in a pinch.
All-purpose flour: The base of our bread, giving it structure. Whole wheat flour can also be a good substitute for a heartier texture.

Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. I always use a good quality sea salt for the best taste.
Baking soda: This is our leavening agent, helping the bread rise. Make sure it’s fresh for optimal fluffiness.
Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a delightful tang. If you don’t have any, you can easily make a substitute with milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! Each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect loaf of Cheddar Herb Soda Bread.

How to Make Cheddar Herb Soda Bread

Making Cheddar Herb Soda Bread is a breeze! Follow these simple steps for a scrumptious loaf that your family will rave about. Just remember, this recipe is about enjoying the process, so don’t be afraid to get a little flour on your hands!

Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Kick off by preheating your oven to 220°C. This is a critical step to ensure that your bread rises beautifully.

Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and dust it lightly with flour. This little trick prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfectly golden crust.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Grab a big mixing bowl and throw in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good stir to combine everything thoroughly.

Mixing these dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of baking soda, essential for that delightful rise in our loaf.

Add Cheddar and Herbs

Stir in the chopped herbs and shredded cheddar cheese into the dry mix. Make sure it’s well combined, allowing those vibrant flavors to get cozy with the flour.

Don’t be shy; dig in there and mix until you see the cheese and herbs evenly spread throughout!

Create the Dough

Now, it’s time to mix in the buttermilk. Stir gently until the mixture forms a shaggy dough. This is where the magic happens!

Don’t overdo it, though—less is more here. You want a soft dough without globs of flour remaining.

Knead the Dough

Put the dough on a floured surface and knead gently. Aim to form a smooth ball but avoid the temptation to knead too much.

Over-kneading can lead to a tough loaf, and nobody wants that! Just a few gentle pushes and folds will do.

Shape the Bread

Now, make a round disc of dough, roughly 18 cm across. Place it on your prepared baking sheet.

Dust the top with a bit of flour and cut a deep cross into the surface, about 1 cm deep. This will allow the heat to penetrate and help the bread rise properly.

Bake the Loaf

Throw it in the oven at 220°C for 15 minutes. Then, turn the heat down to 190°C and keep baking for another 30 to 35 minutes.

The bread is ready when it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom. It’s like music to my ears!

Cool the Bread

Once baked, take it out of the oven and wrap the loaf in a tea towel. This helps soften the crust.

Let it cool a bit before slicing. Trust me, your patience will be rewarded!

Tips for Success

Ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise.
When mixing the dough, avoid overworking it to keep the loaf tender.
Use fine herbs to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the bread.

Let the bread cool wrapped in a tea towel for a softer crust.
Experiment with different cheeses for fun variations!

Equipment Needed for Cheddar Herb Soda Bread

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A medium-sized pot can work in a pinch!
Baking sheet: A flat pan to bake the bread. You can line a cake pan if needed.

Oven thermometer: To ensure your oven is at the right temperature for baking.
Measuring cups: For accurate ingredient measurements. Use your favorite cups or even a scale for precision.

Variations of Cheddar Herb Soda Bread

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a zesty twist that packs a punch.

Cheese Medley: Mix different types of cheese like feta, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Vegetable Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped sundried tomatoes or black olives for a Mediterranean flair.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to cater to dietary preferences.

Herb Variation: Try different herbs like dill or basil for a fresh take tailored to the season.

Serving Suggestions for Cheddar Herb Soda Bread

Soup Pairing: Serve warm with your favorite creamy soup, like tomato or potato leek.
Salad Side: Complement with a fresh garden salad drizzled in lemon vinaigrette.

Cheese Platter: Arrange slices with a selection of cheeses and cured meats for a delightful snack.
Dipping Delight: Enjoy with a bowl of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.

FAQs about Cheddar Herb Soda Bread

Can I make Cheddar Herb Soda Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in a tea towel and store it at room temperature. Reheat slightly before serving for that just-baked warmth.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you’re out of buttermilk, no worries! Mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and voila, you have a suitable substitute!

Can I freeze leftover soda bread?
Definitely! Once cooled, slice the Cheddar Herb Soda Bread and wrap it well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you need a slice, just thaw or toast it!

What should I serve with Cheddar Herb Soda Bread?
This bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or can be enjoyed on its own with a pat of butter. The flavor is versatile enough to complement various dishes from breakfast to dinner!

How do I know when my Cheddar Herb Soda Bread is done baking?
The bread is perfect when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The aroma filling your kitchen will also be a sure sign you’re in for a treat!

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on my journey with Cheddar Herb Soda Bread, I’m reminded of the joy it brings to cozy, shared meals. There’s something magical about pulling a warm, crusty loaf from the oven, the aroma wrapping around you like a comforting blanket. Each bite is a reminder of home and togetherness, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. This simple recipe empowers you to create delightful moments in the kitchen without fuss. Trust me, your family will relish this delicious loaf, and you’ll bask in the love that fills your home through its warm, cheesy embrace.