Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a warm, comforting loaf packed with the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the fresh brightness of herbs. It’s got a soft, tender crumb with a golden crust that’s perfect for slicing and sharing. This bread comes together quickly without any yeast, making it a great choice when you want homemade bread but don’t have a lot of time.
I love how the cheese melts just enough inside the bread, giving each bite a little cheesy surprise, while the herbs bring a lovely, subtle flavor that feels both fresh and cozy. Whenever I make this, the smell alone fills the kitchen and draws everyone in, so it never lasts long on the table. A small tip: using sharp cheddar really makes the flavor pop, but you can use whatever cheese you have on hand.
My favorite way to enjoy this soda bread is simply warmed with a pat of butter or alongside a bowl of soup, especially on chilly days. It’s also fantastic for sandwiches or just as a snack. It’s one of those breads that feels homemade and special without any fuss, and I always find it perfect for sharing with friends or family during casual meals or gatherings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour works great here, giving the bread structure. If you want a lighter texture, you can try half all-purpose and half cake flour for a slightly softer crumb.
Baking soda: This is the leavening agent that makes soda bread rise quickly. Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise. If you don’t have buttermilk, use regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar added, let it sit for 5 minutes before mixing.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang and richness. You can swap it for Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder flavor. Grate the cheese finely to mix well and melt evenly into the bread.
Herbs: Fresh chives, parsley, and rosemary bring fresh flavor. Feel free to substitute or add your favorites like thyme or oregano. Fresh is best here, but dried herbs can work—just use about one-third the amount.
How Do I Handle the Dough Without Overworking It?
With soda bread, the key is to mix the dough just until everything comes together. Overmixing will make it tough instead of tender.
- First, gently fold the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
- When kneading, keep it light and brief—about 5-6 turns on a floured surface is plenty.
- If the dough feels too dry, add a splash more buttermilk carefully to avoid stickiness.
- Shape into a round loaf without pressing too hard to keep the bread airy and soft inside.
- Finally, score the top with a sharp knife to help the bread rise evenly and give it a nice rustic look.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all your ingredients easily without spills.
- Wooden spoon – great for mixing the dough gently without overworking it.
- Baking sheet – use a sturdy one to bake your loaf evenly and get a nice crust.
- Parchment paper – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Sharp knife – essential for scoring the top so the bread can rise nicely in the oven.
- Cooling rack – lets the bread cool down evenly and keeps the crust crisp.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky, savory touch that pairs well with cheddar.
- Swap rosemary for thyme or dill to change up the herb flavor—thyme adds earthiness while dill brings a fresh brightness.
- Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy burst that complements the cheese.
- Use smoked cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a spicier or smokier twist on the classic flavor.
Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups (360 ml) buttermilk
- 1 ½ cups (170 g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- Butter for serving
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. Add another 15 minutes to let the bread cool before slicing and serving. All in all, you’ll have fresh soda bread ready in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it so the bread won’t stick.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped herbs (chives, parsley, and rosemary if using) until they’re spread evenly throughout the dry mixture.
4. Combine with Buttermilk:
Make a well in the center of your bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Gently mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough comes together into a soft, slightly sticky ball. If it feels too dry, add a little more buttermilk, a tablespoon at a time.
5. Shape and Score:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it lightly just a few times to bring it all together—don’t overwork it! Shape the dough into a round loaf about 7 to 8 inches wide. Place it on your prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross on top. This helps the bread bake evenly and gives it a classic look.
6. Bake the Bread:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Your bread should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when you tap the bottom gently.
7. Cool and Serve:
Allow your bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, spread with fresh butter for the best flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Herbs or Cheese in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure frozen herbs are fully thawed and drained to avoid extra moisture. For frozen cheese, thaw it completely and pat dry if needed before adding to the dough.
Can I Substitute Buttermilk in Soda Bread?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 ½ cups of milk with 1 ½ tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using—it works just like buttermilk in the recipe.
How Should I Store Leftover Soda Bread?
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze it; then toast or warm slices directly from frozen.
Can I Add Other Flavors or Ingredients?
Definitely! You can add cooked bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, or swap herbs like thyme or dill to customize the flavor. Just fold them into the dry ingredients before adding buttermilk.
