Savory Herbed Cheddar Soda (Printable)
Rustic Irish loaf with sharp cheddar and fresh herbs for a flavorful, hearty snack.
# What You Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
→ Cheese & Herbs
05 - 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
08 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
→ Wet Ingredients
09 - 1 ½ cups cold buttermilk
10 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
11 - 1 large egg, lightly beaten
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the surface.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
03 - Stir in the grated sharp cheddar, chives, parsley, and thyme until evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold buttermilk, melted butter, and lightly beaten egg until uniform.
05 - Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix just until a shaggy dough forms—do not overmix.
06 - Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead 4 to 5 times to bring it together, then shape into a round loaf approximately 7 inches in diameter.
07 - Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep X across the top of the dough.
08 - Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
09 - Cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb to set properly.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- No waiting hours for dough to rise just pure satisfaction in under an hour
- The combination of sharp cheddar and fresh herbs makes every bite interesting
02 -
- Overworking the dough makes it tough so stop mixing as soon as everything comes together
- The X on top is not just traditional it helps the bread bake evenly in the center
03 -
- Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre shredded for better melting
- Cold buttermilk is key so do not let it sit out while you prep