Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Name: Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme), chopped; 1 ¼ cups buttermilk

Published: December 30, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

This incredible Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread:

All-Purpose Flour: The base of our soda bread; choose unbleached flour for a richer flavor.
Baking Soda: This magical ingredient helps the bread rise without yeast; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt: Essential for flavor; sea salt adds a nice crunch to the crust!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for an extra kick of flavor that melts beautifully.
Fresh Herbs (like Rosemary or Thyme): Choose your favorites; they bring fragrant notes that elevate this simple bread.
Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tanginess; if you don’t have it, regular milk mixed with lemon juice works too.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it to keep things from sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, shredded cheddar cheese, and your chosen herbs until well combined. It should smell heavenly already!

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the buttermilk gradually while stirring with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. Embrace the stickiness—it’s part of the magic!

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Gently knead it just enough to bring everything together—about five folds should do! Shape it into a round loaf about an inch thick.

Step 5: Score the Top

Place your shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, score an “X” on top—this helps it bake evenly and also looks super rustic.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes until it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

Transfer to plates and enjoy your flavorful Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread fresh from the oven! Whether you’re serving it alongside dinner or indulging during snack time with butter melting into every crevice, this bread is sure to impress. Happy baking!

You Must Know About Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

This showstopping Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you combine dry ingredients. Mix the flour, baking soda, salt, and herbs in a bowl. Then add cheese before incorporating buttermilk to form a dough. Shape and bake for 30 minutes to achieve that perfect crust.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread by swapping in different cheeses like Gruyère or adding sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme can elevate it further. Don’t forget about a sprinkle of chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

This professional-quality Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up this Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread just to see my friends’ eyes widen as they take their first bite—it’s pure magic every time!

FAQs

What is Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread?

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a delightful quick bread that combines the rich flavor of cheddar cheese with aromatic herbs. Unlike traditional yeast breads, it uses baking soda as a leavening agent, making it easy and quick to prepare. This bread is perfect for any meal, whether served warm with butter or as an accompaniment to soups and salads. The combination of cheese and herbs elevates its taste, making it a favorite among cheese lovers. Plus, it’s a great option for those who may not have the time or patience for yeast-based recipes.

How do I store Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread?

To store your Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread, first allow it to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can store it at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the bread. Slice it before freezing so you can take out individual pieces as needed. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from the freezer.

Can I customize the herbs in Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread?

Absolutely! One of the great features of Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is its versatility. You can use different herbs based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Popular choices include rosemary, thyme, or chives, which all pair wonderfully with cheddar cheese. Feel free to experiment with combinations of dried or fresh herbs to create a flavor profile that suits your taste. Customizing your soda bread makes each batch unique!

What are some serving suggestions for Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread?

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread serves wonderfully alongside various dishes. It pairs perfectly with hearty soups, stews, or salads, adding a lovely texture and flavor contrast. You can also serve it with butter, olive oil, or dips like hummus for an appetizer spread. For breakfast or brunch, try toasted slices topped with avocado or eggs. The possibilities are endless; enjoy this bread any way you like!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. Its quick preparation time makes it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers alike. With versatile serving options ranging from soups to breakfast dishes, this bread will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs to make each batch special. Enjoy the delicious burst of flavors that this delightful quick bread offers!