If you adore the comforting flavors of classic Irish soda bread but are looking for a fun, bite-sized twist, this Irish Soda Bread Cookies Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. These cookies blend the rustic charm of traditional Irish baking with a tender crumb, gentle cinnamon spice, and plump bursts of raisins or currants, creating a perfect sweet snack that’s equally at home at your St. Patrick’s Day celebration or afternoon tea. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just someone eager to try something fresh and delicious, these cookies offer a warm, inviting taste of Ireland in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together in this recipe, each playing a key role in delivering the perfect taste, texture, and warmth. From the flaky, buttery crumbs to the moist, tangy touch of buttermilk, every component is essential.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to these cookies with a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the slightly tangy buttermilk.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise beautifully for a fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside buttermilk to lighten the dough and add tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A gentle spice that gives a cozy, comforting depth to every bite.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces): Creates a flaky texture and rich flavor.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a subtle tang, reacting with the soda to leaven the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm sweetness that enhances the cookie’s aroma.
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants: Little bursts of juiciness that bring tradition and extra sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Offers a satisfying crunch and nutty undertone.
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional): Adds a delightful sparkle and crunch on top.
How to Make Irish Soda Bread Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your cookies won’t stick and will bake evenly. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and perfect cookie bottoms every time.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisking these ingredients first guarantees they are evenly distributed, which means your cookies will rise uniformly and have consistent flavor throughout.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Next, add your cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This process creates little pockets of buttery goodness that make the final cookies flaky and tender, just like traditional Irish soda bread.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients and Mix
Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract gently, mixing just until everything comes together. Overmixing can make the dough tough, so fold until combined and still a little chunky. Then, gently fold in the raisins and walnuts if you’re using them, distributing those lovely bursts of texture and flavor evenly.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or large spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For a pretty, sparkling finish, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before popping them into the oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges turn golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean—signaling cookie perfection.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool. This step prevents sogginess and helps the cookies set to the perfect texture. Now, your Irish Soda Bread Cookies are ready to be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Irish Soda Bread Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a touch of elegance, dust your cookies lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle a bit of honey on top. You can also spread a thin layer of softened butter or cream cheese on warm cookies to enhance the buttery, soft crumb.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a steaming cup of black tea, green tea, or even a creamy chai latte. For a more indulgent snack, serve alongside fresh fruit like apples or pears to brighten the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For St. Patrick’s Day treats or festive gatherings, arrange the cookies in a wreath shape with fresh sprigs of mint or edible flowers. Wrap them in cellophane tied with a green bow for charming gifts. You can also sandwich two cookies with a dollop of Irish cream-flavored frosting or clotted cream for an extra special dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Irish Soda Bread Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Keeping them sealed preserves their moisture and prevents them from becoming dry or stale.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking, then thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To refresh frozen or stored cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes or microwave for 15 seconds. This quick warm-up revives their soft, buttery texture and aroma beautifully.
FAQs
Can I substitute the buttermilk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle; this homemade version will work perfectly in this Irish Soda Bread Cookies Recipe.
Are walnuts necessary in the recipe?
Not at all. Walnuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, but you can leave them out if you prefer or substitute with pecans, almonds, or even omit nuts entirely for a simpler cookie.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of raisins?
Yes! Dried cranberries make a delightful alternative, lending a slightly tart sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon and vanilla in the dough.
How long do the cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. After that, they can start to dry out, so freezing is a great option to extend their shelf life.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
With some modification, yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that can be used cup-for-cup. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the texture.
Final Thoughts
This Irish Soda Bread Cookies Recipe is one of those delightful discoveries that turns a beloved traditional bread into an irresistible treat. The comforting flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make these cookies a warm hug in edible form. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share these charming little bites with your family and friends—they’re perfect for any occasion that calls for a bit of Irish cheer and delicious sweetness.
Print
Irish Soda Bread Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irish Soda Bread Cookies are a delightful, sweet variation of the classic Irish soda bread. These soft and slightly spiced cookies feature warm cinnamon and plump raisins, enhanced with the richness of buttermilk and a touch of vanilla. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or a cozy afternoon treat, they combine traditional Irish flavors in a convenient, bite-sized form.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix-ins and Toppings
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until fully combined. This creates the flavorful base of the cookies.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold, small pieces of unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, which helps create a tender texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the cookies’ tender crumb.
- Fold in Mix-ins: Gently fold in the raisins and chopped walnuts if using, distributing them evenly throughout the dough for bursts of flavor and texture.
- Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or large spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each to allow for spreading. Optionally, sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar for added crunch and sweetness.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies’ edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This helps them set properly and develop their full flavor before serving.
Notes
- These cookies are a sweet twist on traditional Irish soda bread, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or afternoon tea.
- Dried cranberries can be used as a substitute for raisins.
- If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute with plain yogurt or milk mixed with lemon juice.
- Chopped walnuts are optional but add a nice texture contrast.
- Sprinkling coarse sugar on top is optional for a crunchy, sweet finish.
