Let’s Bring the Irish Tradition to Your Kitchen
A Sturdy Classic with a Gluten-Free Makeover
Irish soda bread is a humble staple that carries generations of heritage. But guess what? You can make it gluten-free and it’ll still have that crisp crust and tender crumb everyone loves. Whether you’ve been gluten-free for years or just starting out, this recipe delivers nostalgic satisfaction without the wheat.old-world baked goods, you’ll also enjoy these similar recipes like our fluffy Irish soda bread scones
Why This Bread is a Game-Changer
This gluten-free Irish soda bread recipe skips yeast but doesn’t skip flavor. The magic combo of buttermilk, baking soda, and gluten-free flour rises beautifully without the hassle. Plus, with buttery richness and chewy raisins, it’s one of those rare gluten-free recipes that feels like a warm hug from grandma.
Where Old Meets New
A Beautiful Balance of Heritage and Health
Sonia grew up around slow-cooked meals and artisan loaves, but she’s also a tech-savvy mom with celiac-safe tricks up her sleeve. This recipe reflects her obsession with making gluten-free alternatives that don’t feel like alternatives just pure, honest comfort food.
The Recipe – Quick, Simple, Unbelievably Good
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making the perfect gluten-free Irish soda bread starts with choosing the right ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need for this no-fuss, flavorful loaf:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Flour Blend | 3 cups (375g) |
| Xanthan Gum | 1 tsp |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Baking Soda | 1 tsp |
| Baking Powder | 1 Tbsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Unsalted Butter (Cold) | 1/2 cup (1 stick) |
| Currants or Raisins | 2/3 cup |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup + 1 Tbsp (divided) |
| Egg (Room Temperature) | 1 |
Hack: Want ultra-flaky texture in your gluten-free Irish soda bread? Freeze the butter and grate it directly into the flour.
Instructions That Just Work
Here’s how to make your gluten-free Irish soda bread like a pro:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt this forms the base of your gluten-free soda bread.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until crumbly.
- Add currants or raisins for a touch of sweetness that complements the rich flavor of the gluten-free Irish loaf.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg, then pour into the flour mixture.
- Stir with a spatula, then knead with your hands to form a soft, sticky dough.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the lined baking sheet.
- Combine melted butter and 1 Tbsp of buttermilk; brush the top of the loaf to create a golden crust on your gluten-free Irish soda bread.
- Use a knife to score a deep X on the top it helps your gluten-free soda bread rise evenly while baking.
- Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let the bread cool on the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack. Wait until it cools completely before slicing your gluten-free Irish soda bread for best results.
Storage and Serving
This bread keeps well! Wrap tightly and keep at room temp for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5. It’s perfect toasted with butter or served alongside a hearty dinner idea like our creamy chicken mushroom with rice
Troubleshooting and Flavor Swaps
Common Issues When Making Gluten-Free Irish Soda Bread
Gluten-free baking can feel unpredictable, but this gluten-free Irish soda bread is surprisingly reliable. Still, if things don’t turn out perfect the first time, here’s what to watch for:
- Dough too sticky? That’s normal. Lightly wet your hands to shape it. Resist the urge to add more flour, or your gluten-free soda bread might turn dry.
- Loaf too dry or crumbly? You might’ve overmeasured the flour. Spoon and level it into your measuring cup, or better yet, use a kitchen scale. Also, make sure your butter is cold this helps the dough hold together.
- Pale or soft crust? Brush generously with the butter-buttermilk mixture before baking to get that signature golden crust.
Fun Flavor Variations to Make It Your Own
Want to jazz up your gluten-free Irish soda bread? Try these easy mix-ins:
- Add orange zest and cranberries
- Make it savory with cheese and herbs
- Top with sunflower or caraway seeds
- For even more gluten-free baking tips, try our crisp and delicate gluten-free communion wafers
This gluten-free soda bread recipe is super adaptable, making it a great go-to for everyday baking or special holiday meals.
Gluten‑Free Irish Soda Bread
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon
- Cake Pan or Baking Sheet
- Sharp Knife
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups + 2 Tbsp gluten‑free all‑purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum) e.g., Cup4Cup
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1¼ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup butter melted and cooled
- 1 cup raisins or currants
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Line a cake pan or baking sheet with parchment.
- In a large bowl whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in buttermilk, beaten egg, and cooled melted butter until just combined into a sticky dough.
- Fold in raisins until evenly distributed.
- Turn dough onto floured surface, shape into an 8‑9″ round loaf, and transfer to prepared pan.
- Cut a cross about ¼” deep on top of loaf.
- Bake 50 minutes until deep golden and internal temperature ≈190 °F; tent with foil if browning too quickly.
- Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to rack. Slice warm or at room temperature.
Notes
FAQs
Can soda bread be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Traditional soda bread depends on baking soda and buttermilk not yeast for rise, which makes it easy to adapt. By using a high-quality gluten-free flour blend and xanthan gum, you can enjoy gluten-free Irish soda bread that’s just as hearty and flavorful as the original.
What is the trick to making good gluten-free bread?
The secret lies in balance. Use a gluten-free flour mix that combines starches and whole grain flours, and include xanthan gum or psyllium husk to mimic the structure gluten provides. For gluten-free Irish soda bread, cold butter and the right moisture level help it hold together and bake evenly.
Is there a difference between soda bread and Irish soda bread?
Not really. The term “soda bread” refers to any bread leavened with baking soda. “Irish soda bread” is the traditional version, often containing buttermilk and sometimes raisins or caraway seeds. When made gluten-free, it retains the rustic look and tender crumb of the classic.
Does Aldi have gluten-free bread?
Yes, Aldi offers a range of gluten-free options under its liveGfree brand. While they don’t carry gluten-free Irish soda bread year-round, you can often find gluten-free sandwich loaves, bagels, and seasonal baked goods.
Why This Gluten-Free Irish Soda Bread Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Box
Whether you’re avoiding gluten by choice or necessity, this gluten-free Irish soda bread gives you all the hearty satisfaction of the original without compromise. It’s fast (no yeast, no rise time), fuss-free (no fancy equipment), and wonderfully adaptable. Plus, it pairs beautifully with everything from creamy soups to salty Irish butter.
Is there gluten-free bread in Ireland?
Definitely. As gluten awareness grows, many Irish bakeries and cafes now offer gluten-free options, including gluten-free soda bread. If you’re in the mood for a rustic seasonal dessert, our nectarine cobbler hits all the right notes
If you’ve been hunting for a gluten-free recipe that actually tastes like bread, this one’s a keeper. Simple ingredients, classic technique, and foolproof results make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Ready to bake your first loaf of gluten-free Irish soda bread? Get your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s make something terrific together.
For more easy homemade bakes, don’t miss our banana bread mix recipe it’s simple, flexible, and family-approved