Irish Brown Bread
Irish Brown Bread

Irish Brown Bread

Inspired by Fred B. Dugan
91 Reviews 4.4 out of 5 stars

Traditional Irish brown bread is a simple combination of whole wheat and white flours, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk; this version adds a bit of enrichment in the form of sugar and butter (or oil) for a slightly sweeter, more tender loaf. The craggy top and moist crumb beg to be pulled apart and eaten at all hours of the day, especially when slathered with salted butter.

Prep
15 mins
Bake
38 to 42 mins
Total
55 mins
Yield
1 large round loaf
Irish Brown Bread - select to zoom
Irish Brown Bread - select to zoom
Irish Brown Bread - select to zoom
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Instructions

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  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease a 9" metal pie pan.

  2. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  3. Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk and the oil or butter. Stir together until blended — some lumps will remain.

  4. Turn the dough out onto a floured board and knead about 10 times, or until it all holds together.

  5. Form the dough into a large ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet or in the prepared pie pan. Brush the top with buttermilk and sprinkle with oats. Cut a deep cross in the top.

  6. Bake the bread for approximately 38 to 42 minutes, or until a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  7. Remove the bread from the oven, cool for 10 minutes on the baking sheet or in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature. Serve with sweet butter and a dollop of marmalade, if desired.

  8. Store well-wrapped for a couple of days at room temperature; freeze for longer storage.

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