Vegan Soda Bread Recipe Easy, Delicious, and Quick to Make

There’s something wonderfully comforting about the warm, slightly tangy aroma of freshly baked soda bread wafting through your kitchen. Traditionally an Irish favorite, soda bread is beloved for its simplicity and quick preparation.

But what if you want to enjoy this classic without any animal products? Good news — this vegan soda bread recipe is easy, delicious, and perfect for those following a plant-based lifestyle or anyone looking for a wholesome bread option without yeast or long rising times.

This recipe uses simple pantry staples and relies on baking soda and vinegar to achieve that classic rise. The result is a crusty, golden-brown loaf with a soft, tender crumb inside that pairs beautifully with soups, stews, or just a generous smear of vegan butter.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this soda bread will quickly find a place in your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First, it’s incredibly easy and fast to make — no kneading or waiting for hours. This means you can whip up a fresh loaf on the same day you plan to eat it.

Plus, it’s vegan-friendly using no eggs, milk, or butter. Instead, plant-based ingredients keep it moist and tender.

The bread has a beautiful rustic crust and a light texture that makes it perfect for both hearty sandwiches and simple buttered slices. You’ll also appreciate how versatile it is: add your favorite herbs, seeds, or dried fruits for a personal touch.

It’s a great way to enjoy homemade bread without the fuss of yeast.

If you love this recipe, be sure to check out our other baking favorites like the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves and the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet treat to accompany your bread.

Ingredients

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour – you can substitute half with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ¾ cups (420ml) plant-based buttermilk* (see note below)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar or maple syrup for slight sweetness
• Optional herbs or seeds: rosemary, thyme, sunflower seeds, or flaxseeds, about 2 tablespoons

*To make vegan buttermilk, mix 1 ¾ cups plant milk (almond, soy, oat) with 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes.

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Sharp knife or bread lame
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the vegan buttermilk: In a small bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it curdles slightly.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. If you’re adding sugar or herbs/seeds, mix them in now.
4. Add the vegan buttermilk: Pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. The dough will be sticky but avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
5. Shape the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using floured hands, gently pat it into a round loaf shape about 1 ½ inches thick.
6. Score the bread: Place the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross (about ½ inch deep) on top of the dough. This helps the bread bake evenly and gives it the classic soda bread look.
7. Bake the bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool before slicing: Transfer the bread to a cooling rack and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This step ensures the crumb sets perfectly.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dry ingredients. You can also mix in ¼ cup of sunflower seeds or flaxseeds for texture.

Variation: Swap out the all-purpose flour for half whole wheat for a healthier loaf with a nuttier taste. You can also add dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet twist.

Storage: Soda bread is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze slices and toast them when needed.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan soda bread is truly versatile. Serve warm slices with vegan butter or your favorite plant-based spreads for a simple snack or breakfast.

It pairs wonderfully with hearty soups and stews — try it alongside a bowl of our comforting Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.

For a more substantial meal, use soda bread to make sandwiches filled with fresh veggies and hummus or your favorite vegan deli slices. It’s also fantastic toasted and topped with smashed avocado and a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Conclusion

This vegan soda bread recipe is a quick, simple way to enjoy homemade bread without the fuss of yeast or animal products. Its rustic charm and comforting flavor make it a staple that you’ll want to bake again and again.

The combination of baking soda and vinegar ensures a lovely rise and tender crumb, while the optional add-ins let you customize the loaf to your taste buds.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or expanding your plant-based recipe collection, this soda bread is a must-try. Don’t forget to explore more vegan delights like our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or the Soy Free Vegan Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals for tasty, compassionate cooking inspiration.

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