Irish Soda Bread Recipe Vegan Made Easy and Delicious

Irish soda bread is a beloved staple in Irish kitchens, known for its simplicity, heartiness, and delightful crumb. Traditionally made with buttermilk and baking soda, this bread rises quickly without yeast, making it an ideal choice for a quick homemade loaf.

If you’re following a vegan lifestyle or simply want to enjoy a plant-based version of this classic bread, you’re in the right place! Our vegan Irish soda bread recipe captures all the rustic charm and flavor of the original while using entirely plant-based ingredients.

This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. It requires minimal ingredients, no kneading, and delivers a crusty exterior with a soft, tender inside.

Whether you’re planning to serve it alongside a hearty stew or enjoy it toasted with jam, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this vegan Irish soda bread! First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—no yeast, no rising time, and just a few simple ingredients.

It’s also naturally vegan, dairy-free, and can be made gluten-free with a few tweaks. The bread has a wonderfully rustic texture with a golden crust and a soft, moist crumb.

Plus, it’s versatile; you can add seeds, herbs, or dried fruits to customize it to your taste.

Finally, it’s a great way to bring a bit of Irish tradition into your home kitchen in a healthy, plant-based way. For more vegan baking inspiration, check out our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 3/4 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (to create a vegan “buttermilk”)
• Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup raisins, 1 tablespoon caraway seeds, or 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary or thyme)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Baking sheet or cast-iron skillet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Sharp knife or bread lame (for scoring)
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a cast-iron skillet.
2. Make the vegan buttermilk: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. If using optional add-ins like raisins or seeds, stir them in now.
4. Add wet ingredients: Pour the vegan buttermilk into the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently combine until just incorporated. The dough will be sticky but should hold together. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
5. Shape the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, gently shape it into a round loaf about 7-8 inches in diameter. Transfer it to your prepared baking sheet or skillet.
6. Score the top: Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross (about 1/2 inch deep) on the top of the dough. This helps the bread expand while baking and gives it a traditional look.
7. Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a cooling rack. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb to set.

Tips & Variations

“For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum. Also, feel free to experiment with add-ins like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even fresh herbs to make the bread your own!”

• Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier, denser loaf.
• Add herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an aromatic twist.
• Include dried fruits like raisins or currants for a slightly sweet bread perfect for breakfast.
• Try seeds like caraway, fennel, or flax seeds for extra texture and flavor.
• Make mini loaves or rolls by dividing the dough into smaller portions and adjusting baking time accordingly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan Irish soda bread is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with many dishes. Serve it warm with plant-based butter or jam for a simple snack or breakfast.

It also complements soups and stews wonderfully—try it alongside a rich vegan vegetable stew or a classic Irish stew made with mushrooms and root vegetables.

For a heartier meal, slice the bread and use it to make open-faced sandwiches topped with smashed avocado, roasted vegetables, or vegan cheese.

Explore more delicious vegan recipes to pair with your bread, like our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating or the flavorful Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.

Conclusion

Making vegan Irish soda bread at home is a rewarding and simple baking project that yields a deliciously rustic loaf perfect for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and no yeast required, this bread is an accessible recipe for all skill levels.

Its crusty exterior and tender crumb make it a delightful accompaniment to meals or a comforting snack on its own.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with add-ins like herbs and dried fruits, this bread brings a touch of Irish tradition to your table in a fully plant-based way. Don’t forget to check out our other vegan recipes for inspiration, including the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and the Soy Free Vegan Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals.

Happy baking and sláinte!

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