Mary Berry Soda Bread Recipe (Rustic, Quick & No Yeast)

This Mary Berry-style Soda Bread is a quick and traditional Irish loaf made without yeast. With a crunchy crust and tender crumb, it’s perfect served warm with butter, cheese, or soup. Simple, wholesome, and ready in under an hour—no kneading or rising needed!

Ingredients

• 3½ cups (450g) plain all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1¾ cups (400ml) buttermilk
• Optional: 1 tbsp honey or treacle for a touch of sweetness

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly flour it.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk. Mix quickly with your hand or a wooden spoon to form a soft dough—do not overmix.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface, shape into a round loaf, and place on baking sheet. Flatten slightly and cut a deep cross on top with a floured knife.
5. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
6. Let cool slightly on a wire rack. Best served warm with butter!