Gluten-Free Irish Soda Bread for St. Paddy’s Day (or Any Day)

This California version of this classic Irish Soda Bread is a nod to the past, with a modern, gluten-free twist that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. It’s crusty on the outside, tender on the inside, with that signature tang only buttermilk can impart. This bread doesn’t care for the fuss or the muss; it’s a no-yeast, no-wait, mix-it-dump-it-bake-it kind of deal, making it perfect for those impromptu cravings or when you’re pressed for time. Whether you’re slathering it with butter, jam, or using it to mop up the last bits of stew from your plate, this Gluten-Free Irish Soda Bread is here to prove that gluten-free can indeed be glorious.

Ah, St. Patrick’s Day, the time of year when everyone, regardless of actual heritage, feels a wee bit Irish. Suddenly, it’s all about shamrocks, leprechauns, and, of course, the food. Among the iconic staples, Irish soda bread stands out—a simple, hearty loaf that’s as integral to the festivities as green beer. But what happens when you’re navigating the gluten-free maze? Do you have to say slán (goodbye) to this beloved bread? Fear not, my gluten-averse friends, for gluten-free Irish soda bread is here to save your St. Paddy’s Day feast.

I’ve updated classic Irish Soda Bread flavors to include some diced California Prunes (instead of currants), and added a little bright orange zest and zippy rosemary for a little extra oomph. Why mess with a perfectly great bread you may wonder? Honestly I can never leave anything alone and I truly love orange, prunes and rosemary together. It’s not totally traditional, but the sunny flavors really work here (and this lass loves her California sunshine).

Here’s What You’re Going to Need to Make This Gluten Free Irish Soda Bread

• Gluten Free Flour Blend – my preference is Bob’s Red Mill 1 to 1
• Butter – to help keep the bread tender and moist
• Extra Large Egg – to help it stick together and give it the right crumb
• Buttermilk + baking soda – for just the right amount of lift
• California prunes, orange zest and fresh rosemary

FAQ

Does Irish Soda Bread Contain Gluten?

By default, yes. But with gluten-free flour, it’s a delicious exception to the rule.

Which Gluten-Free Flour Is Closest to All-Purpose Flour?

Look for a gluten-free blend that includes rice flour and potato starch. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill and King Arthur Flour are solid choices.

What’s the Difference Between Irish Bread and Irish Soda Bread?

Irish bread is a catch-all for bread from Ireland, while Irish soda bread specifically uses baking soda as a leavening agent.

Why Does Irish Soda Bread Not Need Yeast?

Baking soda reacts with buttermilk to create lift, making yeast unnecessary. It’s the no-drama queen of the bread world.

The Gluten-Free Soda Bread Revolution

Creating a gluten-free version of Irish soda bread isn’t just about keeping traditions alive; it’s about challenging the notion that gluten-free means taste-free. With the right flour blend and a bit of culinary courage, you can whip up a loaf that’s so good, even your wheat-loving friends will be asking for seconds.

Remember, the goal here is to enjoy the process (and the bread, obviously). So, wear that apron with pride, get your hands dirty, and bake your way to gluten-free bliss. This St. Patrick’s Day, may your soda bread be gluten-free, your beer be green, and your heart be full (of bread, mainly).

Here’s to a gluten-free Irish soda bread that brings a little bit of Ireland into your kitchen. Sláinte!

Other Gluten Free Irish Recipes to Try

• A Delicious Gluten Free Irish Apple Cake – The Perfect Comfort Dessert
• Gluten Free “Guinness” Cake with Bailey’s Buttercream – The Chocolate Stout Cake of Your Dreams
• Tender + Delicious Pot Roast for Slow Cooker or Oven
• The Unrivaled Charm of Irish Fifteens: A No-Bake Gluten-Free Dessert

Did you make this gluten free Irish Soda Bread recipe? Be sure to leave a comment and star rating below (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) and post a picture and tag us on Instagram using the hashtags #agirldefloured #deflouredrecipes! Thank you!

Gluten-Free Irish Soda Bread: Your St. Paddy’s Day Savior

Alison Needham

This California version of this classic Irish Soda Bread is a nod to the past, with a modern, gluten-free twist that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. It's crusty on the outside, tender on the inside, with that signature tang only buttermilk can impart. This bread doesn’t care for the fuss or the muss; it’s a no-yeast, no-wait, mix-it-dump-it-bake-it kind of deal, making it perfect for those impromptu cravings or when you’re pressed for time. Whether you're slathering it with butter, jam, or using it to mop up the last bits of stew from your plate, you'll love this Gluten-Free Irish Soda Bread recipe! For those who prefer to cook with weight instead of cups – click the button below to toggle to metric.

5 from 4 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine Irish

Servings 12 servings

Calories 172 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet or 9" cast iron skillet (24cm)

Ingredients

 

US CustomaryMetric

 

1x2x3x

• 3 3/4 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour blend about 470g
• 1 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum omit if your flour blend already contains it
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 10 tablespoons salted butter cold (and preferably Irish)
• 1 cup chopped California Prunes about 175g
• 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary
• 1 1/3 cups buttermilk
• 2 large eggs room temperature

For brushing on loaf

• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 tablespoon buttermilk

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside for now.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum (if your blend doesn’t already include it), sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
• Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter, two knives, or my preference (your hands), working until you achieve pea-sized crumbs. This bit of elbow grease ensures our bread gets that lovely, flaky texture.
• Stir in the chopped prunes, orange zest and minced rosemary to distribute them evenly throughout the flour mixture. These little jewels add a delightful chew and sweetness to each slice.
• In a smaller bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until smooth. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. Start stirring with a spatula to gently combine everything. Once it begins to come together, get hands-on to mix the batter into a wet dough. It'll be sticky, but you can coax it into a ball shape.
• Place your dough ball onto the prepared cookie sheet or skillet. In a small dish, mix the melted butter with the buttermilk. Brush this mixture over the entire surface of the dough for a golden, shiny crust.
• With a sharp knife, boldly cut an X into the top of the dough. This isn’t just for looks; it helps the bread bake evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-55 minutes. You're looking for a golden brown crust and for the bread to sing a little hollow tune when tapped. No wet batter should be visible in the center X.
• Allow the bread to cool on the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience, my friend, for this bread slices and tastes better when it’s cooled down.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 172kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 508mgPotassium: 152mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 505IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 116mgIron: 0.4mg

Keyword gluten free irish soda bread, irish soda bread

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