Savory Cheddar Chive Soda Bread (Printable)
Rustic Irish loaf with sharp cheddar, fresh chives, and a tender, golden crust.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 tsp baking soda
03 - 1 tsp fine sea salt
04 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Cheese & Herbs
05 - 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, coarsely grated
06 - 1/3 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
→ Wet Ingredients
07 - 1 3/4 cups buttermilk, plus extra as needed
08 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Stir in the grated cheddar and chopped chives until evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
04 - Create a well in the center of the mixture. Pour in the buttermilk and melted butter. Mix with a wooden spoon or hands until a shaggy dough forms. Add additional buttermilk one tablespoon at a time if mixture is too dry.
05 - Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead just until it comes together, avoiding overworking. Shape into a round loaf approximately 7 inches in diameter.
06 - Transfer loaf to prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep X across the top of the loaf.
07 - Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until deeply golden brown and loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
08 - Allow to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It comes together in under 15 minutes with ingredients you probably already have
- The cheese creates these incredible gooey pockets throughout the tender crumb
- It bakes up golden and impressive looking despite being virtually foolproof
02 -
- Do not overwork the dough or it will become tough instead of tender
- The X on top helps the bread bake evenly and is traditional for soda bread
- Room temperature ingredients help the dough come together more smoothly
03 -
- Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre shredded for better melting and flavor
- Use room temperature buttermilk to help the dough come together quickly