Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe

If you love something comforting with a rustic touch and bursting with flavor, then this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is going to be your new best friend. Imagine the rich, savory punch of sharp cheddar dancing with fragrant fresh herbs, all wrapped up in a hearty, golden loaf that’s quick to whip up but feels like a labor of love. This bread is wonderfully textured thanks to the baking soda’s magic, offering a tender crumb with a satisfying crust, perfect for both cozy meals and lively gatherings. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just craving something deliciously simple, Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread delivers a soulful bite every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and aroma for our Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread. Fresh herbs add brightness, sharp cheddar introduces richness, and buttermilk brings that gentle tang and tenderness.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the foundation of the bread and a little extra handy for dusting.
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda: Our rising agent, giving the bread its delightful lift without yeast.
• 1 tsp salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors and balance the sharpness of the cheese.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives: Brings a subtle oniony freshness that wakes up the taste buds.
• 1 tbsp each chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage: These herbs add layers of earthy, aromatic notes that make the bread truly special.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient, offering a sharp, savory punch that melts beautifully within the bread.
• 1 ¾ cups buttermilk: Moistens the dough and reacts with baking soda to create that light, tender crumb.

How to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Herbs

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit—this ensures a wonderfully crisp crust. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Then add the freshly chopped herbs and shredded cheddar cheese. This mix forms a beautifully aromatic and cheesy base for your bread, promising flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Add Buttermilk and Form the Dough

Pour in the buttermilk and use a wooden spoon or your hands to gently bring the dough together. It will feel a bit sticky and shaggy, which is exactly what you want. Be careful not to overwork it—just a few gentle turns to bring it into a cohesive ball will do. Over kneading can make the bread dense, so keep it light and easy.

Step 3: Shape and Score the Dough

Lightly flour your countertop before turning out the dough. Shape it into a smooth ball, then pat it flat into a 7-inch round. Place it on a floured baking sheet and dust the top with a little more flour. Using a sharp knife, score a cross about half an inch deep across the top—this helps the heat circulate and cooks the loaf evenly.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Hollow

Pop your bread into the oven and bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes. Then lower the temperature to 375 degrees and continue to bake for another 30 to 35 minutes. Trust your ears here—a hollow sound when you tap the bottom means the bread is perfectly baked through. This step gives you that ideal crust-to-crumb ratio that’s so satisfying.

Step 5: Cool Wrapped in a Tea Towel

Once out of the oven, wrap your Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread in a clean tea towel. The trapped steam softens the crust slightly, keeping it tender on the outside while staying wonderfully moist inside. Let it rest a bit before slicing to ensure the best texture.

How to Serve Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Garnishes

To highlight the fresh herbs inside, try sprinkling a few extra chopped chives or a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of warm slices. A light smear of butter will melt into the cheese pockets, making every bite decadently savory.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a creamy soup like tomato bisque or a chilled salad. Its robust flavor stands up well alongside stews or sharp cheeses on a grazing board, making it an excellent all-rounder for casual meals or entertaining.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice it thick and toast the pieces for an irresistible breakfast base—top with avocado or smoked salmon for a treat. Alternatively, serve it warm alongside an herb-infused olive oil dip or use it to make an epic grilled cheese sandwich that’s bursting with herby, cheesy goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread tightly in plastic wrap or a reusable food bag, then store it at room temperature. It will stay fresh for two to three days, perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, slice the bread first and freeze the pieces separated by parchment paper in an airtight container or bag. This method prevents sticking and lets you grab just what you need for a quick toast or snack.

Reheating

Defrost frozen slices at room temperature or gently warm them in a toaster or oven. Wrapping the whole loaf in foil and warming it at a low temperature can refresh a day-old bread wonderfully, reviving that fantastic fresh-baked aroma and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this bread?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic for this recipe, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different twist without losing the cheesy goodness.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No worries! You can make a simple substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of milk, letting it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it curdles slightly. This will mimic buttermilk’s acidity needed for the soda to rise properly.

Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh?

You can, but fresh herbs really bring the vibrant aroma and flavor needed to make this Soda Bread shine. If dried is all you have, use about one-third of the fresh quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Why shouldn’t I over-knead the dough?

Over-kneading develops gluten, which can make soda bread tough and dense. Since soda bread relies on baking soda for leavening instead of yeast, keeping the kneading minimal ensures that tender crumb and soft texture.

How do I tell when the bread is fully baked?

Tapping the bottom of the loaf is your best test—the bread should sound hollow, indicating it’s baked through. Also, the crust should be a deep golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

Final Thoughts

Making Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is one of those joyful kitchen adventures that rewards you generously with flavor and a sense of satisfaction. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to brighten up your dining table, this bread’s flavorful herbs and sharp cheddar make every slice a delight. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with how easy and delicious it is—happy baking!

Print