Perfectly Moist Irish Wheaten Bread

Name: Perfectly Moist Irish Wheaten Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 10 slices
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 2 cups wholemeal flour (freshly milled if possible); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda (sifted); 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed); 2 cups buttermilk (shaken)

60 min 10 slices Easy

All Recipes

Discover how to make perfectly moist Irish wheaten bread, a hearty and wholesome treat that's easy to prepare and delicious to eat.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Irish wheaten bread, also known as brown soda bread, is a staple in Irish cuisine. Its dense texture and rich, nutty flavour make it a perfect accompaniment to soups and stews, or simply enjoyed with a pat of butter. This version focuses on achieving a perfectly moist crumb, thanks to careful ingredient selection and precise baking. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be foolproof and satisfying. Ideal for those looking to bring a taste of Ireland into their kitchen, this bread is as easy to make as it is to devour.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease a 23cm (9-inch) loaf pan.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the wholemeal flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar.

Pro tip: Ensure baking soda is sifted to avoid clumps.

Add wet ingredients

Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently until combined.

Pro tip: Do not overmix to prevent a tough texture.

Transfer to pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Pro tip: Tap the pan gently to release any air bubbles.

Bake the bread

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is browned and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil.

Cool and serve

Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Pro tip: Cooling fully prevents the bread from crumbling.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh, good-quality wholemeal flour for the best flavour.
Do not overmix the dough to keep the texture light.
Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal rise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Irish wheaten bread moist?

The buttermilk in the recipe helps keep the bread moist by providing both moisture and acidity.

Can I substitute buttermilk?

Yes, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.

How long does Irish wheaten bread last?

It lasts up to 3 days at room temperature if wrapped in a tea towel, or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What is Irish wheaten bread?

Irish wheaten bread is a type of soda bread made with wholemeal flour, known for its dense texture and nutty flavour.

Can I add seeds or nuts to the bread?

Yes, you can add seeds or nuts for extra flavour and texture. Mix them into the dry ingredients before adding the wet ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your perfectly moist Irish wheaten bread warm, with a generous spread of butter, or alongside a hearty stew for a comforting meal. This bread keeps well at room temperature for up to three days when wrapped in a clean tea towel. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread, then toast slices straight from the freezer as needed.

Nutrition per serving

180

Calories

Protein

Fat

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