Description
Traditional Irish brown bread made with whole wheat flour, buttermilk, and baking soda for a dense, hearty loaf. Quick to prepare, no yeast or kneading required. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients
2 cups (240g) whole wheat flour
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons (25g) brown sugar (optional)
1¾ cups (400ml) buttermilk
2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
½ cup (45g) rolled oats (optional, for topping/folding)
1 tablespoon (15ml) molasses (optional)
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Set to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch loaf pan or line with parchment.
Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flours, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well. Pour in buttermilk, melted butter, and molasses. Stir until just combined. Do not knead.
Shape Dough: Transfer to the pan or form a dome on a floured baking sheet. Score a deep cross on top. Optionally sprinkle with oats.
Bake: Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes. Reduce to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 25–30 minutes. Tap bottom—should sound hollow.
Cool: Rest on wire rack for 20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Use plant-based milk + lemon juice for dairy-free version.
Add seeds, raisins, or oats for variations.
Avoid overmixing to preserve texture.
Slice before freezing for convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: Irish brown bread, traditional soda bread, easy brown bread, whole wheat bread