Brown Soda Bread with Molasses

I have made soda bread before however thought I would give this recipe a try. It has a slight variation, the addition of molasses. This is a quick no fuss recipe without yeast that gives a more dense and textured bread typical of rural Ireland. This soda bread is so appealing that it is great to serve anytime, with any meal and not just Irish inspired ones. 

Brown Soda Bread with Molasses

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Makes 1 loaf

2 cups all purpose flour, plus extra for dusting

2 cups whole wheat flour 

1/2 cup rolled oats

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 3/4 cups buttermilk

2 tablespoons molasses

Preheat the oven to 450ºF. Line a baking sheet with a sheet of nonstick parchment paper.

Combine the flours, oats, salt, and baking soda in a large bowl, mixing throughly.

Whisk together the buttermilk and molasses in a large pitcher. Make a well in the centre of the flour mixture and pour in the buttermilk mixture. Using a fork, stir the liquid, gradually drawing in the flour from around the edge. With floured hands, lightly knead to a soft dough.

Shape the dough into a circle and place on the lined baking sheet. Press flat to about 2 inches thick. Use a sharp knife with a long blade to cut a deep cross in the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 400ºF. Bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bottom of the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool slightly. Serve warm.