If you’re craving a rustic, comforting loaf that’s fast, foolproof, and perfect for any occasion, this Blue Ribbon Irish Soda Bread delivers on every level. With a crunchy crust, soft crumb, and slightly sweet, buttery flavor—it’s the ultimate quick bread that requires no yeast, no kneading, and no rising.
Whether you’re baking for St. Patrick’s Day, brunch, or Sunday supper, this Blue Ribbon Irish Soda Bread recipe is the one you’ll come back to again and again.
👉 Craving something cozy to sip with your warm bread? Try the viral Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea — a soothing citrus-mint blend that’s the perfect contrast to hearty Irish brown bread.
Table of Contents
Blue Ribbon Irish Soda Bread – Easy & Award-Winning
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Pastry cutter or fork for blending butter
- Baking sheet or cast-iron skillet greased or lined
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cold butter cubed
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1 cup raisins or currants optional
- 1 tbsp caraway seeds optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a cast-iron skillet or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Add cubed cold butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg. Pour into the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
- Fold in raisins and caraway seeds if using.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface, gently knead 6–8 times, and form into a round loaf.
- Place on the prepared skillet or sheet. Score a deep “X” on top with a sharp knife. Bake for 35–45 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
🍞 What Is Blue Ribbon Irish Soda Bread?
Irish soda bread is a traditional quick bread that uses baking soda and buttermilk as leavening, rather than yeast. This Blue Ribbon version takes it up a notch—adding butter, eggs, and a touch of sugar for richness, tenderness, and just the right hint of sweetness.
It’s called “Blue Ribbon” because it’s a recipe worthy of winning contests—flavorful, balanced, and perfectly textured.
🛒 Ingredients for Blue Ribbon Irish Soda Bread
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 4 cups all-purpose flour | Base structure |
| 1 tsp baking soda | Leavening agent |
| 1 tbsp baking powder | Boosts rise and fluffiness |
| 1 tsp salt | Enhances flavor |
| ¼ cup granulated sugar | Adds sweetness |
| ½ cup (1 stick) cold butter | Tender crumb, buttery flavor |
| 1¾ cups buttermilk | Moisture + activates baking soda |
| 1 large egg | Adds structure and richness |
| 1 cup raisins or currants | Optional, adds chewy sweetness |
| 1 tbsp caraway seeds (optional) | Adds classic aroma + taste |
📝 Substitute buttermilk with milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice if needed.
👨🍳 How to Make Blue Ribbon Irish Soda Bread (Step-by-Step)
1️⃣ Prep Your Oven and Pan
- Preheat to 375°F (190°C)
- Lightly grease a cast-iron skillet or line a baking sheet with parchment
2️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking soda + baking powder
- Salt + sugar
3️⃣ Cut in the Butter
- Use a pastry cutter or fork to blend cold butter into flour until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
4️⃣ Add Buttermilk and Egg
- In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg
- Pour into dry ingredients and stir until just combined
- Fold in raisins or caraway seeds if using
5️⃣ Shape and Score
- Turn dough onto a floured surface
- Gently knead 6–8 times (don’t overwork it)
- Shape into a round loaf
- Place on skillet or sheet and score an “X” in the top using a sharp knife
6️⃣ Bake
- Bake for 35–45 minutes or until golden and sounds hollow when tapped
- Cool on wire rack at least 15 mins before slicing
🧈 Serving Suggestions for Blue Ribbon Irish Soda Bread
This bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it:
| With… | Why it works |
|---|---|
| Irish butter | Classic and ultra-satisfying |
| Orange marmalade | Sweet contrast to the savory bread |
| Stews or soups | Perfect dunking companion |
| Cream cheese & honey | Sweet & creamy breakfast option |
| Smoked salmon + dill | Elegant brunch-style twist |
🕊️ Why It’s a “Blue Ribbon” Winner
🏆 This recipe wins big for:
- A soft, tender interior with a crisp golden crust
- Balanced sweetness that complements both savory and sweet toppings
- Beginner-friendly method with no yeast or rising time
🥇 It’s no surprise this Blue Ribbon Irish Soda Bread gets rave reviews at bake-offs and family tables alike!
❄️ Storage & Freezing Tips
- Room temp: Store wrapped for up to 3 days
- Refrigerate: Not necessary, unless heavily topped
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months
- Reheat: Toast or warm in oven for fresh-baked taste
📌 Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy baking recipes, Irish classics, and comforting food pairings:
👉 https://www.pinterest.com/abdessalamhmouch/
🧠 FAQs About Blue Ribbon Irish Soda Bread
Why score the top with an “X”?
Traditionally believed to “let the fairies out,” it also helps the loaf cook evenly.
Can I make it without raisins?
Yes! Leave them out or replace with chocolate chips, cranberries, or nothing at all.
Can I bake it in a loaf pan?
You can, but a free-form round gives the classic rustic look and even bake.
Why did my bread turn out dry?
Overmixing or overbaking can dry out the crumb. Be gentle with the dough and watch the oven closely in the last 10 minutes.