Soda Bread with Milk Chocolate and Salted Honey Butter
This Soda Bread with Milk Chocolate and Salted Honey Butter is a delightful, fluffy treat perfect for breakfast or tea, combining rustic comfort with sweet and savory flavors.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Soda Bread
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon cardamom
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- 2/3 cup milk chocolate chunks or chips
For the Salted Honey Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 to 3 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Soda Bread Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help your bread rise beautifully.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk and lightly beaten egg. Whisk until smooth.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined; lumps are fine.
- Gently fold in the milk chocolate chunks until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, gently shape it into a round loaf about 1.5 inches thick. Place it onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Using a sharp knife, score a deep cross on the top of the loaf to help it expand while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack.
Salted Honey Butter Preparation
- Cream the unsalted butter in a bowl until smooth. Add honey and salt, mixing until well combined.
Serving
- Slice the warm soda bread and spread with the luscious salted honey butter. Enjoy every bite!
Notes
- Mix the dough just until combined to avoid a dense bread.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to ensure proper rising.
- Score the bread before baking to allow it to expand properly.
- Wrap cooled bread tightly for storage and freeze for longer shelf life.
- Substitute semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a less sweet variation.