Mary Berry Soda Bread Recipe
The Mary Berry soda bread recipe is a simple, quick, and beginner-friendly way to enjoy fresh homemade bread. Made with just flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk, it creates a soft, fluffy center with a golden, rustic crust. Perfect for breakfast, with soups, or toasted with butter, it’s versatile and comforting. Try the irish soda bread recipe Mary Berry version with wholemeal flour for a nuttier, heartier loaf that’s just as easy to bake.
Equipment
- Large mixingbowl
- Wooden Spoon
- Sharp knife
- Baking Sheet
- Oven gloves
Ingredients
- 4 cups 500g plain flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ¾ cups 400ml buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats, place your baking sheet inside so it gets hot. This step helps give the loaf a crisp, even base.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir them together so the baking soda is spread evenly—this ensures the bread rises properly.
- Add the buttermilk: Make a little well in the center of the flour mix. Pour in the buttermilk and gently stir with a spoon or your hand. The dough should come together quickly, but don’t overwork it. Too much mixing can make it dense instead of light.
- Shape the dough: Sprinkle flour on your hands and shape the dough into a round ball. Press it down slightly so it’s not too tall. Place it on a floured surface for just a moment.
- Score the top: With a sharp knife, cut a large X across the top. This isn’t just for looks—the cross helps the heat reach the center and lets the bread expand as it bakes.
- Bake the loaf: Take the hot baking sheet from the oven (carefully with oven gloves) and place the dough onto it. Bake for 30–35 minutes. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the base and look golden brown.
- Cool and enjoy: Place the loaf on a wire rack and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then slice it thick, spread with butter, or serve it alongside soup or stew.
Video
Notes
- Can substitute buttermilk with milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar.
- Leftovers can be frozen and toasted later.
- Add seeds, raisins, or herbs for variation.
- Ideal served with soups, stews, butter, or jam.