Air Fryer Soda Bread

Ingredients

Key Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure. You can also substitute half with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• 3/4 tsp Baking Soda (Bicarbonate of Soda): The sole leavening agent. Ensure it is fresh for the best rise.
• 1/2 tsp Fine Sea Salt: Enhances the buttery, rich flavors of the bread.
• 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Cold, Cubed): Rubbed into the flour to add richness and tenderness to the crumb.
• 3/4 cup (180ml) Real Buttermilk (Cold): The essential acidic component. Full-fat buttermilk yields the most flavor.

Optional Add-ins & Flavor Boosters

• 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar or Honey: Adds a gentle hint of sweetness.
• 1/3 cup Raisins, Currants, or Dried Cranberries: For a classic sweet soda bread style.
• 1 tbsp Caraway Seeds: For a traditional earthy, aromatic twist.
• 1/2 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar & 1 tbsp Chopped Chives: For a savory variation.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer & Equipment

1. Line the bottom of your air fryer basket with a sheet of parchment paper sized to fit the loaf, or lightly spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray. Preheat your air fryer to 340°F (170°C) for 3 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients & Butter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar (if using). Add the cold, cubed butter. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. (If adding dried fruit or seeds, stir them in now.)

Step 3: Mix in the Buttermilk

1. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in about 3/4 of the cold buttermilk. Using a wooden spoon or a silicone spatula, gently stir from the center outward until a soft dough begins to form. If the dough seems too dry or floury, add the remaining buttermilk one tablespoon at a time.
2. Important: Do not overmix or knead heavily. Overworking the dough develops gluten, resulting in a tough, gummy bread instead of a soft crumb.

Step 4: Shape the Loaf

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently bring it together with your hands into a round, domed disc about 5 to 6 inches in diameter and 1.5 to 2 inches thick . Ensure it fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket with space around the edges for air circulation.

Step 5: Score the Dough

1. Using a sharp knife or razor, cut a deep “X” across the top of the loaf (about 1/2-inch deep). This traditional cross serves a practical purpose: it allows heat to penetrate the center of the dense dough so it bakes evenly without cracking unpredictably.

Step 6: Bake in the Air Fryer

1. Gently transfer the dough ball onto the parchment paper in your preheated air fryer basket.
2. First Phase: Bake at 340°F (170°C) for 15 minutes .
3. Flip & Finish: Open the basket, carefully flip the loaf upside down using tongs or heat-proof gloves, and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes . Flipping ensures the bottom cooks thoroughly and doesn’t remain soggy.
4. The bread is done when the crust is a deep golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped. (Internal temperature should reach ~200°F / 93°C on an instant-read thermometer).

Step 7: Rest and Cool

1. Remove the soda bread from the air fryer and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Wrap the warm loaf tightly in a clean kitchen towel for 10 minutes . This traps the escaping steam, softening the thick crust just enough so it’s easy to slice.

Nutrition

Calories: 185 kcal — · Protein: 5.5 g 11% · Fat: 3.2 g 4% · Carbohydrates: 33 g 12% Dietary · Saturated Fat: 1.8 g 9% Trans · Fiber: 1.2 g 4% · Sugar: 2.1 g — · Sodium: 420 mg 18%