Are you tired of waiting hours for traditional bread to rise? Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread, but who has time for all that kneading and proofing on busy days? I’ve got the perfect solution that will revolutionize your homemade bread game!
This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread takes just 30 minutes from mixing bowl to table, and delivers that warm, comforting satisfaction of homemade bread without the wait. As someone who’s been perfecting quick bread recipes for years in my bikren Cook kitchen, I’m excited to share this foolproof method that produces a crusty exterior and tender, flavorful interior every single time.
Hi! I’m Emily, the creator behind bikren Cook, and I believe that delicious, fresh bread shouldn’t be complicated or time-consuming. This soda bread recipe has become a staple in my home, whether paired with soups, salads, or simply enjoyed with a generous spread of butter. In this guide, you’ll discover my secret ingredients, mixing techniques, and baking tips that ensure perfect results even for beginner bakers.
Ready to learn about ingredient selection, step-by-step instructions, flavor variations, and serving suggestions? Let’s start baking!
Why This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe Works
This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread recipe stands out from traditional bread methods for several compelling reasons:
- Uses simple pantry ingredients with no yeast required
- Comes together in just 10 minutes of hands-on preparation
- Bakes in only 20-25 minutes for fresh bread in under half an hour
- Creates a rustic, crusty exterior with a soft, flavorful interior
- Requires no special equipment—just a bowl and a baking sheet
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Best Flour Options for This Recipe
For this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread, all-purpose flour works perfectly, creating a tender crumb with just the right structure. For a more rustic texture, you can substitute up to half the amount with whole wheat flour. Self-rising flour is not recommended as this recipe requires specific leavening agents.
Cheese Selection Tips
Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar provides the most robust flavor profile in this soda bread. Look for block cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting quality. For best results, grate the cheese yourself just before adding to the dough.
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs
While fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and chives offer vibrant flavor, dried herbs work wonderfully too. When using dried herbs, remember to reduce quantities by two-thirds (1 tablespoon fresh = 1 teaspoon dried) for balanced flavor.
Ingredients & Prep for Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Dry Ingredients Essentials
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried mixed herbs (or 3 tablespoons fresh chopped herbs)
Wet Ingredients
- 1¾ cups buttermilk (at room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Additional Mix-ins
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for extra flavor
Looking for more quick and delicious recipes to complement your soda bread? Check out my Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta for a complete 20-minute meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Instructions
Pre-Cooking Prep for Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and dried herbs) and whisk thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, melted butter, and beaten egg until well combined.
- Grate cheddar cheese and set aside 1/4 cup for topping.
Mixing and Shaping the Soda Bread
- Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture.
- Stir with a wooden spoon until just combined (don’t overmix).
- Fold in the grated cheddar and any additional fresh herbs until evenly distributed.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently form into a round loaf about 7-8 inches in diameter.
Baking Your Soda Bread
- Transfer the shaped dough to your prepared baking sheet.
- Using a sharp knife, score an “X” about 1/2 inch deep across the top of the loaf.
- Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cooling and Serving
Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the interior to finish setting for clean slices.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Achieving the Perfect Texture
- Handle the dough minimally to avoid developing gluten, which can make the bread tough.
- Use cold butter and buttermilk for a more tender crumb.
- Don’t skip the scoring step—this helps the bread rise evenly and creates that classic artisanal look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-mixing the dough will result in a dense, tough bread.
- Skipping the buttermilk (its acidity is crucial for proper reaction with baking soda).
- Using old baking powder or baking soda can prevent proper rising.
Storage and Freshness Tips
- Store cooled soda bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, slice and freeze for up to 1 month.
- Refresh day-old bread by warming in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
For more delicious recipes that pair beautifully with this soda bread, check out my Garlic Mozzarella Chicken Bomb Skewers for a complete meal your family will love!
Flavor Variations for Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Sweet and Savory Options
- Mediterranean: Add 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes and 1/4 cup olives with feta cheese instead of cheddar
- Jalapeño Cheddar: Include 2-3 diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Caramelized Onion: Fold in 1/2 cup cooled caramelized onions for sweet depth
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice instead of buttermilk and dairy-free cheese alternative
- Vegan: Replace buttermilk with plant milk + acid, use flax egg, and vegan cheese
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Baking Adjustments | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Herb | Rosemary, thyme | None | Aromatic, traditional |
| Spicy | Jalapeños, cayenne | None | Hot, zesty |
| Mediterranean | Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta | Reduce salt by 1/4 tsp | Tangy, savory |
| Sweet | Dried cranberries, orange zest | Add 2 tbsp honey | Fruity, bright |
| Breakfast | Bacon bits, maple syrup | Reduce temp to 400°F | Sweet and savory |
Find more delicious dessert inspiration to complement your bread at my Pinterest page where I’m constantly adding new recipe ideas you’ll want to try immediately!
Serving Suggestions for Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
This versatile bread pairs beautifully with so many dishes:
- Serve warm with salted butter alongside hearty soups or stews
- Create gourmet sandwiches with sliced turkey and cranberry sauce
- Toast slices and top with scrambled eggs for breakfast
- Cube and toast for homemade croutons
- Pair with a cheese board and fruit for an elegant appetizer
For beverage pairings, try:
- Rich tomato soups
- Hearty beef stew
- Roasted vegetable soup
- Irish coffee for an authentic experience
- Robust red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot
After enjoying your savory soda bread, satisfy your sweet tooth with my Strawberry Mousse Creamy Delight for the perfect dessert finale!
FAQs About Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Can I make this soda bread without buttermilk?
Yes! You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1¾ cups of regular milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
Why did my soda bread turn out dense?
Dense soda bread usually results from overmixing the dough or using expired leavening agents. Make sure your baking soda and powder are fresh and mix just until ingredients are combined.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Soda bread should be baked immediately after mixing since the chemical reaction between the acid (buttermilk) and base (baking soda) begins right away. For best results, bake as soon as the dough is mixed.
How do I know when my soda bread is fully baked?
The bread should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I add other cheeses besides cheddar?
Absolutely! Gruyère, Parmesan, or a smoky Gouda would all work beautifully. Just make sure to use a good melting cheese for best results.
If you love baking, you’ll definitely want to try my Perfect Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting that comes together in just 30 minutes!
Conclusion
There you have it—a foolproof recipe for delicious Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread in just 30 minutes! This quick bread proves that homemade baking doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. The combination of sharp cheddar and aromatic herbs creates a flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any meal of the day.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—feel free to experiment with different cheese and herb combinations to make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this soda bread is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
I’d love to hear how your Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread turns out! Join thousands of home bakers who have successfully made this recipe by sharing your results in the comments below. And don’t forget to check out my other quick and easy recipes that make homemade cooking a joy rather than a chore.
Happy baking!
Print
How to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 mins + marinating time
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in creamy Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon, and herbs — full of Mediterranean flavor and perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
3 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, oregano, thyme, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for best flavor.
4. Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat (or oven to 400°F / 200°C).
5. Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess.
6. Grill or cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
For maximum tenderness, marinate overnight.
Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture.
Pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a Greek salad.
Leftovers make great wraps or salads the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg