Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting loaf that combines the sharp, melty goodness of cheddar with fresh, fragrant herbs, you’re going to love this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread. It’s a recipe that’s easy to whip up with simple pantry staples yet delivers a flavor punch that’s perfect any time of day. The subtle tang of buttermilk paired with aromatic chives, thyme, rosemary, and sage makes every bite a celebration of rustic, home-baked goodness. This bread is exactly the kind of loaf I reach for when I want something hearty but effortlessly tasty that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but thoughtfully balanced to achieve the perfect blend of texture and flavor in your Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender crumb of the flour and the lift from the baking soda to the richness of cheddar and the vibrant herbal notes.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our bread, providing structure and a soft crumb.
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda: Acts as the leavening agent that gives soda bread its classic quick-rise.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors, keeping the loaf perfectly seasoned.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives: Adds a mild onion-like freshness that lifts the flavor.
• 1 tbsp each chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage: These herbs bring an earthy complexity and a hint of pine and citrus notes that complement the cheddar beautifully.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides cheesy richness and a wonderful melt throughout the bread.
• 1 ¾ cups buttermilk: Gives the bread moisture, a tangy flavor, and reacts with the baking soda to make it rise.

How to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Mix Dry Ingredients

Begin by heating your oven to 425°F. While that warms up, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. This dry base is where the magic begins, as the baking soda will react with the buttermilk later to make your bread light and fluffy. Giving the dry ingredients a good stir ensures everything is evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture.

Step 2: Add Herbs and Cheese

Next, incorporate your freshly chopped chives, thyme, rosemary, and sage along with the shredded cheddar cheese. This step infuses the bread with those earthy, savory flavors that make this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread truly special. Fresh herbs unlock an aroma that turns your kitchen into a little herb garden, while the cheddar adds a rich creaminess with every bite.

Step 3: Incorporate the Buttermilk and Form Dough

Pour in the buttermilk and gently stir until everything just comes together into a dough. This is where you want to be gentle — overmixing can lead to a dense loaf since soda bread doesn’t rely on gluten development like yeast bread does. Turning the dough onto a lightly floured surface, give it a few light kneads just to bring it into a smooth ball ready for shaping.

Step 4: Shape and Score

Pat the dough into a 7-inch circle on a floured baking sheet and dust the top lightly with flour. Using a sharp knife, carefully score a cross about half an inch deep across the top of the dough. This scoring is traditional in soda bread and helps it bake evenly while creating that iconic rustic look we all love.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your loaf for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and continue baking for another 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom — a classic test for perfect soda bread doneness. Wrapping the warm loaf in a tea towel after baking is a secret to keeping the crust soft while the bread cools.

How to Serve Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Garnishes

While the bread itself is bursting with flavor, adding a slather of salted butter or a touch of herbed cream cheese can elevate your experience even more. A sprinkle of extra fresh chives on top when serving adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal zing that pairs beautifully with the cheese.

Side Dishes

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups like tomato bisque, creamy potato leek, or even a rich beef stew. Its dense yet tender texture is perfect for dunking or mopping up every last bit of sauce or broth, making it a cozy companion for any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist that impresses guests, slice the bread thickly and toast the slices with a little olive oil for a crunchy base. Top with smoked salmon and a dollop of sour cream or use it as a base for open-faced sandwiches with avocados and radishes. Serving it warm, straight from the oven, is a crowd-pleaser every single time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature. This keeps the bread soft and delicious, making it easy to enjoy again without losing its characteristic moist crumb.

Freezing

If you want to have this flavorful bread on hand for busy days, freeze the cooled loaf wrapped well in foil and a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or bake it from frozen at a lower heat to refresh the crust.

Reheating

Reheat slices of the bread in a toaster oven or on a skillet for a crisp exterior and warm, gooey interior. For whole loaves, wrapping in foil and placing in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes works wonders to bring back that just-baked aroma and texture.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread?

Absolutely! While fresh herbs provide brighter flavors and a better aromatic punch, dried herbs can substitute if needed—just reduce the quantity to about one-third since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Why is buttermilk important in this soda bread recipe?

Buttermilk’s acidity reacts with baking soda to create carbon dioxide bubbles that leaven the bread, giving it a tender crumb and a slight tang that complements the cheddar and herbs perfectly.

How do I know when the Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is fully baked?

The classic way is to tap the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, it’s done. The crust should be golden brown and firm, and the bread should feel light rather than dense when lifted.

Can I substitute cheddar cheese with another type?

Yes, you can try other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or even a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile, but cheddar remains the best for that familiar, melty goodness in this recipe.

Is this bread good served cold or just fresh from the oven?

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is delicious warm or at room temperature. Fresh from the oven it’s soft and gooey, while cooled slices offer a firmer texture that’s perfect for sandwiches or toasting.

Final Thoughts

There is just something so utterly satisfying about a loaf of Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread fresh from the oven—the crackling crust, the cheesy aroma, and the hint of herbs woven into every tender crumb. Whether you’re making it as a snack, serving it alongside a hearty meal, or sharing it with friends, it’s guaranteed to warm hearts and fill stomachs. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own kitchen favorite!

Print