Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread Recipe | Easy No-Yeast Bread with Cheese & Fresh Herbs

Introduction to Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is the ultimate rustic comfort — a no-yeast loaf that’s quick to make and bursting with savory goodness. Inspired by cozy kitchen favorites like “Cooked by Sarah,” “Cheryl’s Cooking,” and “Family Recipes Ideas,” this bread skips the fuss of rising and kneading, yet delivers golden crusts and cheesy, herb-infused slices every time.

With sharp cheddar and fresh herbs folded into a tender crumb, it’s perfect alongside hearty soups, stews, or simply slathered with butter for a satisfying snack. Whether you’re hosting brunch or craving something warm and homemade, this soda bread brings flavor and ease to the table. No fancy equipment, no waiting — just mix, bake, and enjoy. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug from the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread is a weeknight hero and a weekend treat. Ready in under an hour, it skips the yeast and kneading — making it ideal for beginners or anyone short on time. The sharp cheddar adds richness, while fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme bring brightness and depth.

It’s endlessly customizable: swap in your favorite cheeses, toss in leftover herbs, or add a dash of garlic powder for extra punch. The dough comes together in minutes, and the aroma while baking is pure magic. Whether you’re pairing it with soup, serving it at brunch, or enjoying a warm slice with butter, this bread delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

Tip: Got odds and ends of cheese or herbs in the fridge? This recipe is perfect for using them up — and turning them into something delicious.

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful soda bread:

Core Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (cold is best!)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or thyme)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth
• Crumbled feta or Parmesan for a tangy twist
• Chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for Mediterranean flair

This combination creates a tender, flavorful loaf with a golden crust and cheesy pockets throughout. The baking soda reacts with the buttermilk to give rise without yeast, while the herbs and cheese infuse every bite with savory goodness.

Tip: Cold buttermilk helps keep the dough from becoming sticky and ensures a better texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.

How to Make Cheddar and Herb Soda Bread

Follow these simple steps for a warm, cheesy loaf in under an hour:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar and 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, chives, or thyme).
4. Pour in 1 cup cold buttermilk and mix gently until a shaggy dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Don’t knead — just bring it together.
6. Transfer to the baking sheet and score a deep “X” across the top with a sharp knife. This helps the bread bake evenly.
7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the crust is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm with butter, soup, or your favorite spread.

Tip: Avoid overmixing — just stir until the dough holds together. Overworking can make the bread tough. This loaf is best enjoyed fresh but can be toasted the next day for a delicious snack.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible — here’s how to make it work for different diets and flavor preferences:

• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.
• Dairy-free: Substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice. Use vegan shredded cheese.
• Herb swaps: Try rosemary, dill, or basil depending on what’s in season or your taste.
• Cheese swaps: Gruyère adds nuttiness, Monterey Jack brings creaminess, and smoked cheddar gives a bold twist.

Want a little heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the dry ingredients. For a Mediterranean vibe, fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives. You can even make mini loaves or muffins for individual servings.

Tip: This bread is a great canvas — experiment with flavors and textures to suit your mood or pantry. Just keep the base ratio of flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk, and you’re free to play.