Making Irish Soda Bread is easy and enjoyable. Follow these simple steps to create your own loaf:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
4. Add Buttermilk: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk gradually. Mix with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.
5. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it for about 1 minute until it forms a rough ball. Do not over-knead.
6. Shape the Loaf: Form the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Score the Dough: Using a sharp knife, score a shallow cross on the top of the loaf. This helps it cook evenly and gives it a traditional look.
8. Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool: Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool slightly on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving.

With these step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a stunning loaf of Irish Soda Bread ready to be enjoyed!