Vegan Soda Bread Recipe – A Delicious ‘Twist’ on an Irish Classic | Chef Lisa Marley’s Plant-Based Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm slice of freshly baked bread. Whether it’s paired with your morning coffee or served as a cozy afternoon treat, bread has an unmatched ability to nourish both body and soul. But what if that bread could also be made in minutes, without the fuss of yeast, kneading, or complicated techniques? That’s where this vegan soda bread recipe comes in — a wholesome twist on a classic loaf that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.
This fruit and nut soda bread is more than just a quick bread. It’s a celebration of hearty grains, natural sweetness, and deep, earthy flavors. Made entirely dairy-free and 100% plant-based, it’s ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a more nourishing, conscious way of eating — without compromising on comfort.
Why This Vegan Soda Bread Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen
Soda bread has humble origins rooted in tradition — flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. But this updated version pays homage to the classic while introducing vibrant flavor, better nutrition, and a fully plant-based approach.
Instead of dairy-based ingredients, we rely on plant milk, vegan butter, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, proving that simplicity doesn’t mean sacrifice. The addition of black treacle, dried fruits, and nuts takes this loaf to the next level — a little rustic, a little indulgent, and completely comforting.
The Benefits of Baking Dairy-Free
Making bread without dairy doesn’t just make it vegan — it makes it lighter on the digestive system and more inclusive for people with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. According to the NHS, a well-balanced plant-based diet can support overall health, reduce the risk of heart disease, and even improve energy levels.
This vegan soda bread recipe fits beautifully into that lifestyle, offering nutrition and flavor in equal measure. It’s a great example of how plant-based baking can feel indulgent without being heavy or overly processed.
Watch the Vegan Soda Bread Recipe in Action
If you’re more of a visual learner or simply love seeing a recipe come to life, you’ll enjoy this step-by-step demonstration from Lisa Marley. In this video, she walks you through her unique take on the classic soda bread — sharing expert tips, flavor secrets, and her passion for plant-based cooking.
How to Enjoy Your Vegan Soda Bread Recipe
What’s beautiful about soda bread is that it’s so versatile. Enjoy a slice warm from the oven with a pat of vegan butter, or toast it the next day with almond butter and a drizzle of maple syrup. It pairs beautifully with hearty soups, spicy chutneys, or even a light salad.
And while it feels indulgent, it’s nourishing at its core — packed with fiber from spelt flour, natural sugars from dried fruits, and healthy fats from nuts. This makes it not only satisfying, but a smart choice for those wanting to maintain energy throughout the day.
Healthy Ingredients with Purpose
Whole grains, such as spelt flour, are rich in fiber, iron, magnesium, and other nutrients. According to Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, whole grains help support heart health, balance blood sugar, and promote digestion.
Likewise, the inclusion of nuts contributes essential omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamin E, while dried fruits bring antioxidants and a touch of natural sweetness.
A Loaf Inspired by Tradition, Evolved for Today
This vegan soda bread recipe may be rooted in old-world simplicity, but it speaks to modern values — health, sustainability, and plant-based nourishment. It’s a timeless comfort with a contemporary soul.
With no yeast or long proofing times, it’s a fantastic entry point for beginner bakers. And for seasoned home cooks, it offers an easy, satisfying bake that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
About the Creator: Lisa Marley
This recipe was lovingly developed by Lisa Marley, a trusted plant-based chef, certified nutrition & lifestyle coach, and a passionate advocate for mindful cooking. Lisa’s work has been featured in Vegan Food & Living Magazine, BBC Radio Kent, and Amazon Prime’s The World Cook – Season 2, where her culinary creativity continues to inspire a new generation of plant-based food lovers.
With formal training from Westminster Kingsway College and a diploma from Ashburton Cookery School, Lisa’s recipes are rooted in culinary technique and holistic wellness — a combination that shines in every dish she shares.
Storage and Enjoyment Tips
To keep your soda bread fresh, wrap it in a clean tea towel and store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, slice and freeze it — perfect for quick toasting on busy mornings.
Pro tip: Toasted soda bread with nut butter and banana is a breakfast dream!
Final Thoughts on This Vegan Soda Bread Recipe
There’s a reason soda bread has stood the test of time — it’s practical, delicious, and deeply satisfying. This updated version is all that and more. Easy to bake, full of nourishing ingredients, and perfect for any time of day, this vegan soda bread recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
Whether you’re new to plant-based baking or simply looking for a healthier homemade loaf, this recipe offers warmth, nutrition, and a bit of tradition — all baked into one beautiful slice.
Fruit and Nut Soda Bread
Equipment
- Mixing bowl (large)
- Measuring Spoons
- measuring cups
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Baking sheet (lightly floured)
- Sharp knife (for scoring the top of the dough)
- Wire rack for cooling
- Oven
Ingredients
- 370 g plain flour
- 130 g spelt flour
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 40 g melted plant butter
- 1 tbsp black treacle (warmed with melted butter)
- 300 ml plant milk (warmed and mixed with 1 tsp apple cider vinegar)
- 80 g mixed dried fruit
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas mark 6).
- In a large bowl, combine the plain flour, spelt flour, bicarbonate of soda, salt, and dried fruit. Stir well to mix.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the warmed plant milk and apple cider vinegar mixture, melted butter, and black treacle.
- Quickly stir the mixture together to form a sticky dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and briefly knead. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it onto a lightly floured baking sheet.
- Use a sharp knife to cut a cross on top of the dough. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Allow to cool on a wire rack. Best enjoyed the same day!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
If you loved this Fruit and Nut Soda Bread, be sure to check out more amazing recipes from Lisa Marley!
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