Description

This gluten free Irish soda bread is a delicious twist on the traditional recipe, perfect for anyone avoiding gluten. With a crisp golden crust and a soft, slightly sweet interior, this easy no-yeast bread comes together in under an hour. Whether you enjoy it plain, with butter, or alongside a hearty soup, it’s a must-try recipe for St. Patrick’s Day—or any day you crave homemade bread!

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

3 cups gluten free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups buttermilk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 large egg, lightly beaten

Optional Add-ins

1 cup raisins (or currants)
1 teaspoon caraway seeds (for a classic Irish touch)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

Cut the softened butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the buttermilk and stir gently.
Add the beaten egg and mix just until combined—do not overmix!
If using, fold in the raisins and caraway seeds.

Step 5: Shape & Bake

Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Use a sharp knife to cut an “X” on top—this helps the bread expand evenly.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Slice and serve warm with butter, honey, or jam!

Notes

Flour Matters: Use a gluten free flour blend with xanthan gum. If yours doesn’t include it, add ½ teaspoon for better texture.
✔ Dairy-Free Option: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice and butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
✔ Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 45 min

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 brownie
Calories: 210
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg