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Soda Bread with Molasses Recipe

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4.1 from 1 review

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 16 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A rustic and hearty soda bread made with a blend of all-purpose and whole wheat flours, rolled oats, and enriched with the deep sweetness of molasses. This quick bread uses baking soda as a leavening agent and buttermilk for moistness and tang, resulting in a dense yet tender loaf perfect for serving warm with butter or alongside soups and stews.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 2/3 cups buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons molasses (black treacle)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (230°C) and prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper for the bread.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, rolled oats, salt, and baking soda to ensure even distribution of leavening and salt.
  3. Create a Well: Make a well in the center of the dry mix and pour in the buttermilk and molasses, which provide moisture and sweetness to the bread.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry: Using a fork, slowly stir the liquids while gradually incorporating the flour from the edges to form a dough without overmixing.
  5. Knead the Dough: Lightly dust your hands with flour and gently knead the dough until it forms a soft, cohesive ball, avoiding overworking which can toughen the bread.
  6. Shape and Score the Bread: Form the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared parchment paper. Press it down to about 2 inches (5cm) thick, then use a sharp, long-bladed knife to cut a deep cross on top to help even baking and expansion.
  7. Bake at High Temperature: Place the bread in the oven for 15 minutes at 450°F (230°C) to start the rise and crust formation.
  8. Reduce Heat and Continue Baking: Lower the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the base, indicating it is fully baked.
  9. Cool Slightly and Serve: Transfer the loaf to a wire rack and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Ensure the buttermilk is fresh for proper rise and flavor.
  • Do not over-knead the dough to keep the bread tender.
  • Cutting the cross on top helps the bread cook evenly and allows steam to escape.
  • Soda bread is best enjoyed the day it is made but can be lightly toasted the next day.
  • Molasses can be substituted with dark corn syrup or honey if unavailable, but molasses gives the characteristic flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Irish

Find it online: https://saracooking.com/soda-bread-with-molasses-recipe/