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Soda Bread with Molasses Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 16 servings
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Irish

Description

This traditional Soda Bread with Molasses is a hearty, wholesome loaf made with a blend of all-purpose and whole wheat flours, rolled oats, and a touch of sweet molasses for depth of flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, this bread uses baking soda as a leavening agent instead of yeast, perfect for a rustic, comforting bread with a slightly sweet crust and soft crumb. Ideal for serving warm with butter, soups, or stews.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 2/3 cups buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons molasses (black treacle)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper to prepare for baking the bread.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, rolled oats, salt, and baking soda, ensuring even distribution of the leavening and salt.
  3. Create a Well: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk and molasses, which provide moisture and sweetness.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry: Using a fork, slowly stir the liquids while gradually incorporating the flour from the edges to form a dough, taking care not to overmix.
  5. Knead the Dough: Lightly dust your hands with flour and gently knead the dough until it forms a soft, cohesive ball, avoiding overworking to prevent toughness.
  6. Shape and Score the Bread: Form the dough into a round loaf about 2 inches (5 cm) thick, place it on the prepared parchment paper, and use a sharp knife to cut a deep cross on top to aid even baking and expansion.
  7. Bake at High Temperature: Place the bread in the preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 15 minutes to initiate rise and crust formation.
  8. Reduce Heat and Continue Baking: Lower the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the base, indicating it is fully baked.
  9. Cool Slightly and Serve: Transfer the loaf to a wire rack and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Do not overmix or knead excessively to keep the bread tender.
  • Scoring the top helps the bread to expand evenly in the oven.
  • Molasses adds flavor and moisture, but can be substituted with dark honey or maple syrup if preferred.
  • Best served warm, fresh out of the oven with butter.
  • This bread is best consumed within 2 days or toasted the next day.

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Find it online: https://homegrownbeets.com/soda-bread-with-molasses-recipe/