A delightful twist on traditional Irish soda bread, this recipe incorporates a touch of honey for sweetness and a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a hearty texture.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
Sift the dry ingredients for a smoother dough.
Add the buttermilk and honey to the dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms.
Mix gently to avoid overworking the dough.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly until it comes together.
Avoid over-kneading to keep the bread tender.
Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet.
Use parchment paper on the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
Cut a cross on the top of the loaf with a sharp knife and sprinkle with a little flour.
The cross helps the bread bake evenly and gives it a traditional look.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Check the bread halfway through to ensure even baking.
Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooling the bread helps it set and makes slicing easier.