Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread: Easy Homemade Flavor

When I first tried this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread, I couldn’t believe how quick and simple it was to make. The smell of melted cheese and fresh herbs filled my kitchen, making me smile even before the bread was out of the oven.

I loved how it turned golden on the outside but stayed soft and fluffy inside. The best part? No waiting for yeast to rise.

This recipe reminded me of the same satisfaction I got when I first tried making Fried Pineapple with Coconut Crust Recipe—easy, flavorful, and family-approved.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

I’ve made this bread a few times, and each bake has taught me something new. Here are my best tips to make your loaf even better:

• Use freshly grated cheddar instead of packaged shredded cheese. It melts smoother and adds more flavor.
• Don’t skip the fresh herbs—thyme and rosemary work wonders, but basil adds a lighter taste.
• Keep the dough slightly sticky. Overmixing or adding too much flour will make the bread dense.
• For extra richness, sprinkle a little cheese on top before baking.
• Let the bread cool at least 10 minutes before slicing—it makes cutting easier and keeps the slices neat.

Variations to Try

The beauty of this bread is that you can make it your own. I’ve tested a few twists, and they always come out delicious. If you like exploring different dinner recipes, you’ll enjoy playing with these ideas:

• Dairy-Free: Replace cheddar with vegan cheese and use almond or oat milk mixed with lemon juice instead of buttermilk.
• Garlic Lovers: Add roasted garlic cloves or garlic powder to the dough for an aromatic loaf.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or chili flakes with the cheese.
• Rustic Style: Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a hearty texture.
• Herb Blend: Try parsley, dill, or chives for a fresh twist instead of rosemary and thyme.

Equipment You Need

To make this bread smooth and easy, you’ll need just a few basic tools:

• Large mixing bowl – for combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – helps mix dough without overworking it.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Pastry brush – to spread melted butter evenly over the loaf.

How to Serve Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread?

Serving this bread is one of my favorite parts—it looks beautiful and tastes amazing in so many ways. If you’ve ever enjoyed Shrimp Chimichurri Recipe, you know how presentation elevates flavor. Here are some ways I serve it:

• Slice it warm with a spread of salted butter.
• Pair with soups like tomato, potato leek, or creamy mushroom.
• Serve alongside pasta dishes or hearty stews for a full meal.
• Toast leftovers the next day for breakfast with eggs.
• Garnish with fresh herbs on top for a rustic presentation.

Calories Count

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional value per slice (70g):

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sugar: 1g

How to Store the Bread

Keeping your Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread fresh is simple if you follow these tips:

• Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it in foil. It stays fresh for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerating: Wrap the loaf tightly and place it in the fridge. It will last 4–5 days but may lose some softness.
• Freezing: Slice the bread, wrap in freezer-safe bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slices in the oven or toaster.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to bring back the crisp crust and soft interior.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this bread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Quick and Easy: No yeast means no waiting—just mix, bake, and enjoy. Perfect for busy days.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or cheeses for endless flavor options.
• Family-Friendly: Pairs with soups, pasta, or even breakfast, making it versatile for any meal.
• Comforting Flavor: The mix of sharp cheddar and fresh herbs makes every slice warm and hearty.
• Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’ve never baked bread before, this recipe is foolproof.

Ben Carraoli

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a no-yeast bread that is simple yet packed with flavor. It combines the sharp, savory taste of cheddar with the fresh aroma of herbs. This bread has a golden crust with a soft and fluffy inside, making it perfect for soups, stews, or even as a snack on its own.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 3

Course: Breakfast, Dessert

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – gives the bread structure. Use fresh flour for the best rise.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – the key leavening agent reacts with buttermilk for a fluffy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances flavor and enhances the cheese and herbs.
• 1 cup buttermilk – adds tang and helps activate baking soda. If not available mix yogurt with milk.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – freshly grated cheese melts better and avoids clumps.
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs rosemary or thyme – bring out a fragrant, earthy taste. Avoid dried herbs if possible for better flavor.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter – brushed on top for a golden crust and extra richness.

Method

 

1. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to give your bread a good rise and golden crust. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. This step helps distribute the baking soda so the bread rises properly.
2. Slowly pour in the buttermilk while gently mixing with a spoon or spatula. Stir until a sticky dough starts to form, but avoid overmixing. Overworked dough makes the bread dense instead of soft. The buttermilk’s acidity will immediately react with baking soda, creating air bubbles.
3. Add the shredded cheddar and freshly chopped herbs into the dough. Fold them in gently so they spread evenly without breaking the dough apart. Freshly grated cheese melts smoothly, giving a rich, savory taste, while herbs add bursts of flavor throughout the loaf.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf about one inch thick. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then brush the top with melted butter. The butter gives the bread a golden crust while keeping the inside moist.
5. Bake the loaf for 30–35 minutes. The bread should look golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Once baked, let it cool slightly before slicing. This allows the inside to set, making slicing easier and neater.