Description
This traditional Irish Brown Bread recipe features a hearty, wholesome loaf made with whole wheat and all-purpose flours, lightly sweetened with honey, and tenderized by tangy buttermilk. Perfectly crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, this quick bread requires no yeast, making it simple and quick to prepare. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or as a side with soups and stews.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a baking sheet to prevent the bread from sticking during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt together to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the buttermilk and honey (if using) into the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms, ensuring everything is well incorporated without overmixing.
- Shape the Dough: Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it gently into a round loaf, smoothing the surface with your hands to form an even shape.
- Score the Loaf: Using a sharp knife, carefully score a shallow “X” on top of the loaf; this helps the bread expand evenly while baking.
- Bake: Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating it’s fully cooked.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing, so the crumb sets properly and slicing is easier.
Notes
- Using buttermilk is essential for the authentic taste and to activate the baking soda for proper rise.
- For a slightly sweeter bread, you can adjust the honey quantity to taste or omit it for a more traditional savory flavor.
- This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To refresh the bread, lightly toast slices before serving.
- Whole wheat flour adds nuttiness and fiber, but you can adjust flour ratios for texture preferences.
