Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a warm, comforting loaf that combines the sharpness of cheddar cheese with the fresh flavors of herbs. It’s soft on the inside with a slightly crisp crust on the outside, making it perfect for any meal. The soda bread uses baking soda instead of yeast, so it comes together quickly without any waiting.
I love how easy this bread is to make—no kneading or proofing needed! Mixing in the cheese and herbs gives every bite a little surprise, and it smells amazing while it’s baking. I usually add extra sharp cheddar for a tasty kick and like to use whatever fresh herbs I have on hand like parsley or chives.
My favorite way to enjoy this bread is warm from the oven with a bit of butter melting on top. It’s great alongside a bowl of soup, or sliced for sandwiches. Honestly, it’s one of those breads that’s great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and always disappears quickly once you bring it to the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour works well here, giving the bread a nice balance of lightness and structure. If you prefer whole grain, try half whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more texture.
Baking soda & powder: Both are needed for the right rise and crumb. Don’t swap these out – soda bread depends on this reaction since it doesn’t use yeast.
Buttermilk: This adds tang and reacts with baking soda to create lift. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, then let sit for 5 minutes.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor and meltiness. You can use mild cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère if you want a different taste.
Fresh herbs: Chives and parsley bring freshness, while thyme adds earthiness. Feel free to swap with rosemary, dill, or basil, depending on your preference and availability.
How Do I Make Sure My Soda Bread Has the Perfect Texture?
The dough should be just combined and slightly sticky—overmixing makes the bread tough.
- Mix dry ingredients, cheese, and herbs first.
- Add buttermilk gradually and stir gently until the dough forms a loose ball.
- Don’t knead; shaping it gently on a floured surface is enough.
- Score a deep cross on top to help heat penetrate and create a great crust.
- Bake until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped—you’ll know it’s done!
Patience with gentle mixing and a good oven temp will give you moist, tender crumb with a lovely crust every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for mixing dry and wet ingredients without spills.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – lets you gently combine the dough without overworking it.
- Baking sheet or tray – a sturdy surface to bake the bread evenly.
- Parchment paper or silicone mat – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Sharp knife – for scoring the top of the dough to help it rise and bake properly.
- Wire rack – allows the bread to cool evenly and keeps the crust crisp.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cheddar for feta and add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Try mixing in chopped rosemary and garlic for a fragrant, savory flavor.
- Add cooked bacon bits or ham cubes for a smoky, meaty surprise.
- Incorporate grated Parmesan and a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy, sharp edge.
How to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (480ml) buttermilk
- 1 ½ cups (170g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- ¼ cup (15g) fresh chives, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to bake. Add 15 minutes for cooling before slicing. So, in total, plan for about 1 hour from start to enjoying your warm, cheesy soda bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, either grease a baking sheet lightly or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients and Herbs:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir in the grated cheddar cheese along with the chopped chives, parsley, and thyme until everything is well combined.
3. Add Buttermilk and Form Dough:
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Mix gently with a wooden spoon or your hands just until the dough comes together. It should be slightly sticky but manageable—avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
4. Shape and Score the Bread:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf about 7-8 inches wide. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. With a sharp knife, cut a deep cross on the top—this helps the bread bake evenly and gives it its classic look.
5. Bake and Cool:
Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the bread warm, spread some butter if you like, or serve it alongside your favorite soups and stews. Enjoy the delicious blend of cheddar and fresh herbs!
Can I Use Regular Milk Instead of Buttermilk?
Yes! To mimic buttermilk’s acidity, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This helps activate the baking soda for a lighter texture.
Can I Make This Soda Bread Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can bake the bread and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat slices gently in the oven or toaster to refresh the crust and soften the inside.
How Should I Store Leftover Soda Bread?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm before serving.
Can I Substitute Different Herbs in This Recipe?
Definitely! Fresh rosemary, dill, basil, or tarragon can all be delicious alternatives or additions. Use about the same amount of herbs by volume for best flavor balance.
