
If you're looking for a simple and wholesome bread recipe, Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread might be just what you need. This rustic bread is made with 100% whole wheat flour, which adds a nutty and earthy flavor.
With a crisp crust and a tender crumb, this bread is perfect for breakfast with some butter and marmalade or for enjoying a hearty stew for a satisfying and comforting meal.
This recipe is quick and easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal kneading. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and hearty Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread.😉
How to Make Whole Wheat Irish Bread
Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
Preheat the oven to 375°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it and flour it. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt in a large bowl.
Cut in butter using a pastry blender or a fork until it reaches a coarse meal consistency. Whisk together buttermilk, molasses, zest, and egg separately.
Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and add the buttermilk mixture; using a wooden spoon, stir until the dough clumps and becomes shaggy. Add the raisins and stir until incorporated.*(The Dough will be a bit sticky.) Turn out onto the floured surface.
With well-floured hands working quickly, gently press and fold the dough about 4 to 5 times *(try not to knead or squeeze it), then form it into a round loaf.
Transfer the Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread onto the prepared baking sheet, lightly sprinkle flour on top, and generously sprinkle the raw sugar over it.*(The loaf should be about 8" in diameter and 1-½" high). Slash with a sharp knife to make a cross on top.
Bake the Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread at 375 °F for 45 to 55 minutes or until the loaf is golden brown.* The bread's interior should measure 180° on an instant-read thermometer, or you can insert a long, thin skewer into the center.
If it comes out clean, it's done.

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Recipe
Easy Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread

Ingredients
- 4 cups 100% whole wheat flour , spooned and leveled off with the back of a knife ( plus more for your hands and the counter)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter , cut into ½ inch pieces
- 1 egg , lightly beaten
- 4 tablespoon molasses , honey, or brown sugar
- 1 cup raisins or 1 cup currants , optional
- Zest of 1 orange , optional
- 1 1 ⁄4 to 1 13/4 cups buttermilk or plain yogurt (as needed).
- 2 tablespoons turbinado raw sugar for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375° F.Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking sheet and flour it.
- Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt in a large bowl. Using a pastry blender or a fork, cut in butter until it reaches a coarse meal consistency.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, molasses, zest, and egg. Make a well in the center of the dry mixture, and add the buttermilk mixture; using a wooden spoon, stir until the dough begins to clump and become shaggy. Add the raisins and stir just until incorporated.*(Dough will be a bit sticky)
- Turn out onto the floured surface. With well-floured hands and working quickly, gently press and fold the dough about 4 to 5 times *(try not to knead or squeeze the dough), then form it into a round loaf.
- Transfer the Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread onto the prepared baking sheet, and lightly sprinkle flour on top, then sprinkle the raw sugar generously over it.*(Loaf should be about 8" in diameter and 1-½" high).
- Slash with a sharp knife to make a cross on top. Bake the Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread for 375 °F for 45 to 55 minutes or until the loaf is golden brown.*The bread's interior should measure 180° on an instant-read thermometer, or you can insert a long thin skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, it's done.
Notes
- If the top of the Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread is getting too dark while baking, tent the bread with aluminum foil.
- This is optional; to help plump raisins or currents before baking, place them in a bowl and pour over boiling water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, drain, pat them dry, and use.
- Try adding dried cherries, chopped dates or nuts, etc.
- Do not over-knead or add too much flour, or you will end up with dry, hard bread.
- Here's a cool trick, when you tap the Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread, it will have a hollow sound when it is ready.
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate, calculated using standard data sources. Actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, preparation methods, and portion sizes. This information is for general reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice.











