The Best Mary Berry Soda Bread Recipe: Quick, No-Yeast Bread in Minutes!

Ever wondered how to make a loaf of bread without the hassle of yeast or hours of waiting? This Mary Berry soda bread recipe is your answer! Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this no-yeast bread is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. With a crispy crust and a soft, fluffy interior, it’s the ideal accompaniment to soups, stews, or simply slathered with butter. Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

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🥳 Why You’ll Love This Mary Berry Soda Bread Recipe

✔️ No Yeast Needed: Skip the waiting time—this bread comes together in minutes.
✔️ Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy days when you need fresh bread fast.
✔️ Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with herbs, or even sweetened for a dessert twist.
✔️ Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples.

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⏳ Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

This Mary Berry soda bread recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves fresh bread but doesn’t have the time for traditional yeast-based recipes. It’s rustic, hearty, and perfect for any meal.

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soda bread:

For the Bread:

• 450g (3 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• 350ml (1 ½ cups) buttermilk (or homemade substitute—see below)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or chives)
• 50g (1/4 cup) raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet version
• 50g (1/4 cup) grated cheddar cheese for a savory twist

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🔄 Substitutions & Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Replace buttermilk with almond milk or soy milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar.
• Sweet Version: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar and a handful of dried fruit.
• Savory Version: Add herbs, cheese, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

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📌 Step-By-Step Instructions

🔹 Step 1: Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly dust it with flour.

🔹 Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, bicarbonate of soda, salt, and sugar (if using).
2. Add any optional add-ins like herbs, cheese, or dried fruit at this stage.

🔹 Step 3: Add Buttermilk

1. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk.
2. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing—it should be slightly sticky.

🔹 Step 4: Shape the Dough

1. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
2. Gently shape it into a round loaf, about 2 inches thick.
3. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet.

🔹 Step 5: Score & Bake

1. Use a sharp knife to score a deep “X” on top of the loaf. This helps it bake evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

🔹 Step 6: Cool & Serve

1. Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.

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🍽️ Assembly & Presentation Tips

• Rustic Charm: Serve the bread whole on a wooden cutting board for a cozy, rustic look.
• Slice & Spread: Cut into thick slices and arrange on a platter with butter, honey, or jam.
• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs or a dusting of flour on top for an Instagram-worthy finish.

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🥶 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

✅ Store: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
✅ Freeze: Wrap the cooled loaf in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
✅ Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore freshness.

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🌟 Recipe Variations & Customization

• Seeded Soda Bread: Add 2 tablespoons of mixed seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, or sesame) to the dough.
• Cheesy Herb Bread: Mix in 50g grated cheddar and 1 tablespoon chopped herbs for a savory treat.
• Sweet Soda Bread: Add 50g raisins or dried cranberries and 1-2 tablespoons of sugar for a dessert-like version.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes! Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute.

Why is my soda bread dense?

Overmixing the dough can make it dense. Mix just until the ingredients come together for a lighter texture.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend and make sure the baking soda is gluten-free.

How do I know when the bread is done?

The bread should have a golden brown crust and produce a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.

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❤️ Love This Recipe? Save & Share!

If you enjoyed this Mary Berry soda bread recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest and share it with friends. It’s a recipe that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Got questions or want to share your twist on this recipe? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear how you made it your own! 🍽️✨

Pin it now for later! 📌

This soda bread recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. Let me know how it turns out and make sure to share your photos on Pinterest!