Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread – Rustic, Tender, and Perfectly Balanced

Ina Garten’s take on Irish Soda Bread is everything you want in a homemade loaf—golden crust, tender crumb, a touch of sweetness, and just enough richness from buttermilk and butter. This no-yeast bread comes together quickly, making it perfect for beginners or anyone craving freshly baked bread without the wait.

What Is Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread?

Irish soda bread is a traditional quick bread made with baking soda (instead of yeast) as a leavening agent. Ina Garten’s version includes buttermilk, eggs, dried currants or raisins, and orange zest for a subtly sweet and aromatic loaf with a dense yet tender interior and crusty exterior.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Lemon Meringue Pie
• Ina Garten Pineapple Carrot Cake
• Ina Garten Raspberry French Toast
• Ina Garten Spring Green Spaghetti Carbonara

Reasons to Try Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread

• No yeast needed – Quick and simple, no rise time
• Ready in under an hour – A perfect last-minute bread
• Slightly sweet and fruity – Great for breakfast or tea
• Pairs well with savory or sweet dishes – Very versatile
• Beginner-friendly – Minimal kneading and shaping
• Rustic, homemade look – Beautiful and satisfying to bake
• Freezer-friendly – Keeps well for later use

Ingredients Needed to Make Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1¾ cups cold buttermilk
• 1 extra-large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1 cup dried currants or raisins
• Flour for dusting

Instructions to Prepare Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly flour it.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Cut in the butter

Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until the butter is blended in and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Add wet ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and orange zest. With the mixer on low, slowly pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in currants or raisins

Add the dried fruit and stir briefly until evenly distributed. The dough will be sticky.

Step 6: Shape and score the dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to score a deep X across the top.

Step 7: Bake until golden

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.

What Goes Well With Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread

• Softened butter or Irish butter – A classic and simple topping
• Orange marmalade or jam – Enhances the citrus notes
• Sharp cheddar cheese – Great contrast to the sweetness
• Hot tea or coffee – Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack
• Hearty soups and stews – Excellent for dipping
• Clotted cream and honey – For a more indulgent treat
• Corned beef and cabbage – Traditional Irish pairing

Key Tips for Making Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread

• Use cold butter and buttermilk – Keeps the dough tender and flaky
• Don’t overmix the dough – It should be slightly rough for the best texture
• Score deeply before baking – Helps the loaf cook evenly
• Cool before slicing – Prevents crumbling and keeps the crumb intact
• Use orange zest for brightness – Adds subtle fragrance and flavor
• Swap raisins for currants – Depending on your preference
• Dust your hands with flour – Makes shaping the sticky dough easier

Creative Variations of Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread

• Add chopped walnuts or pecans – For extra texture
• Use lemon zest instead of orange – A slightly different citrus flavor
• Swap currants for dried cranberries – Adds tartness and color
• Add a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top – Creates a sweet crust
• Incorporate herbs like rosemary – For a savory version
• Replace some flour with whole wheat – For a heartier loaf
• Include shredded cheese and chives – For a savory brunch bread

Storage Guidelines for Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread

• Store at room temperature in an airtight container – Best within 2–3 days
• Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap – Keeps it moist and fresh
• Freeze for up to 2 months – Wrap in plastic, then foil; thaw at room temp
• Avoid refrigerating – Can dry out the bread
• Slice before freezing if desired – Makes it easier to toast from frozen

Reheating Tips for Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread

• Reheat slices in toaster or toaster oven – Brings back crisp edges
• Wrap in foil and warm in oven at 300°F – For 10–15 minutes if whole
• Add a pat of butter after reheating – Softens the crumb and adds flavor
• Microwave briefly if needed – 10–15 seconds per slice (not ideal for crust)
• Re-toast if serving with cheese or jam – Enhances texture and warmth

Nutritional Value (per slice, approx.)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 240mg

A satisfying quick bread that offers both sweetness and a hearty texture—perfect for any meal of the day.

FAQs

Can I make Irish soda bread ahead of time?

Yes, Irish soda bread can be made 1 to 2 days ahead. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap. For longer storage, freeze the loaf and thaw before serving.

What’s the best way to store Irish soda bread?

Store Irish soda bread at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Avoid refrigeration, as it can dry out the bread. For extended storage, freeze it.

Can I use raisins instead of currants in Irish soda bread?

Yes, raisins can be used instead of currants. Golden raisins or regular seedless raisins are great substitutes and add similar sweetness and texture to the bread.

Why is there a cross cut on top of Irish soda bread?

The cross cut on top helps the bread bake evenly and allows it to rise properly. Traditionally, it’s also said to let the “fairies out” and bless the bread.

Wrapping Up

Barefoot Contessa Irish Soda Bread is the kind of rustic, comforting loaf that’s easy to love and even easier to bake. With its golden crust, tender center, and light sweetness, it’s perfect for both special occasions and everyday enjoyment.

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