Brown Soda Bread Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious & Fluffy

Brown soda bread is a classic Irish staple, beloved for its hearty texture and rich, nutty flavor. This vegan version maintains all the charm of traditional soda bread, using simple plant-based ingredients that come together quickly without the need for yeast or long rising times.

Perfect for those cozy mornings or as a side with your favorite stews and soups, this bread offers a delightful crust and a wonderfully tender crumb. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to bread-making, this recipe is straightforward, foolproof, and satisfying.

In this post, I’ll guide you through every step of making this wholesome brown soda bread, share tips for perfecting it, and suggest some delicious ways to enjoy it. Plus, if you love easy vegan baking, don’t miss my Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe and Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for more plant-based inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brown soda bread recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s 100% vegan without compromising on taste or texture.

Using whole wheat flour and baking soda as a leavening agent gives the bread a deep, nutty flavor and a beautiful dense crumb that’s perfect for sandwiches or dipping.

Secondly, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make—no yeast or proofing time required. Just mix, shape, and bake!

Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, so you can whip up this bread anytime without a special trip to the store.

Finally, it’s versatile and pairs well with sweet or savory dishes, making it an ideal addition to your weekly baking routine.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole wheat flour (freshly sifted for best results)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for subtle sweetness)
• 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (such as oat or almond milk)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (to react with baking soda and help rise)
• 2 tbsp melted coconut oil or vegetable oil (adds moisture and richness)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking sheet or round cake pan
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Sharp knife or bread lame (for scoring the dough)
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly, creating a vegan buttermilk.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar until well blended.
4. Add wet ingredients: Pour the vegan buttermilk and melted coconut oil into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. It should be moist but manageable.
5. Knead gently: Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out. Knead gently for about 1-2 minutes, just enough to bring it together. Avoid over-kneading to keep the bread tender.
6. Shape the dough: Form the dough into a round loaf about 7 inches in diameter and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Score the top: Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross (about 1/2 inch) into the top of the dough. This helps the bread expand while baking and makes for a classic look.
8. Bake: Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The loaf should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool: Transfer the bread to a cooling rack and let it cool completely before slicing. This step is key for the crumb to set properly.

Tips & Variations

“To test if your soda bread is done, tap the bottom of the loaf; a hollow sound means it’s perfectly baked.”

• Flour options: Swap out half the whole wheat flour for spelt or rye flour for a different flavor profile.
• Add-ins: Mix in 1/2 cup of raisins, chopped nuts, or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for extra texture and nutrition.
• Sweet version: Increase brown sugar to 1/4 cup and add a teaspoon of cinnamon for a lightly sweetened bread perfect with jam.
• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This brown soda bread is incredibly versatile. Try it toasted with a smear of vegan butter and jam for breakfast.

It also pairs beautifully with savory dishes like hearty vegan stews, lentil soups, or a robust mushroom gravy.

For a satisfying snack, slice and top with avocado, tomato, and a sprinkle of sea salt. It also makes a great base for open-faced sandwiches or a rustic bread basket alongside a salad.

Don’t forget to check out other recipes that complement this bread perfectly, like my Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe for a non-vegan option or the refreshing Lemon Straws Recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Conclusion

Making vegan brown soda bread at home is a rewarding and delicious experience, especially when you realize how simple it is to prepare. This recipe provides a wholesome, flavorful bread that fits perfectly into any vegan or plant-based lifestyle, with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Its quick preparation and flexible nature make it a perfect recipe to keep in your baking repertoire. Whether served warm with breakfast or as a side for dinner, this bread’s rustic charm will win over family and friends alike.

Once you’ve tried this, be sure to explore other comforting recipes like this Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes to continue your culinary journey.

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