Perfectly moist irish wheaten bread –Wheaten bread, also known as Irish brown bread, is a staple in Irish homes and holds a cherished place in traditional cuisine. This wholesome bread is not only nutritious but also simple to make, allowing you to enjoy the delightful taste of homemade bread right from your kitchen. Below is a recipe for crafting your own Irish wheaten bread, complete with detailed instructions and ingredients.
Image of Irish Wheaten Bread
Here is an illustration of the finished product, showcasing its inviting texture and appealing crust:

Ingredients
To make a delicious loaf of Irish wheaten bread, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- Optional: A handful of raisins or seeds for added texture and flavor
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your own Irish wheaten bread:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it is hot enough for baking the bread.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar. Whisk together until well blended.
- Add Butter: Cut in the softened butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Buttermilk: Gradually pour in the buttermilk while stirring with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together. If you choose to add raisins or seeds, fold them into the mixture at this point.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly for about 1 minute. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the bread tender.
- Shape the Loaf: Form the dough into a round ball and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten the top slightly and cut a deep cross into the surface of the dough.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Once done, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. Slice and serve warm with butter or your favorite spreads.
Enjoy the wholesome goodness of Irish wheaten bread, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or as a side dish to your meals. The rich, nutty flavor and delightful texture will surely make this recipe a favored addition to your repertoire.