Irish Brown with Honey Butter (Printable)

Rustic wholemeal brown bread with a touch of honey butter, embodying traditional Irish flavors.

# What Goes In:

→ Brown Bread

01 - 2 cups whole wheat flour
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1 teaspoon salt
05 - 2 tablespoons rolled oats, plus extra for topping
06 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
07 - 2 cups buttermilk

→ Honey Butter

08 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 2 tablespoons honey
10 - Pinch of salt

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
02 - In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, rolled oats, and brown sugar. Mix well.
03 - Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Do not overmix.
04 - Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Shape into a round loaf approximately 2 inches thick. Place on the prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan.
05 - Use a sharp knife to cut a deep cross on top. Sprinkle with extra oats if desired.
06 - Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped. Cool on a wire rack.
07 - In a small bowl, beat the softened butter, honey, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
08 - Slice the cooled bread and serve with generous dollops of honey butter.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick and easy—no kneading or rising time required
  • Wholesome ingredients with the goodness of whole wheat and oats
  • Perfectly paired with sweet, creamy honey butter
  • Versatile for breakfast, snacks, or alongside soups and stews
  • Authentic Irish flavor that's both rustic and comforting
02 -
  • Don't overmix the dough—a shaggy texture is perfect for tender bread
  • The cross cut on top helps the bread bake evenly and is a traditional Irish touch
  • Test for doneness by tapping the bottom—it should sound hollow
  • Make the honey butter ahead and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before serving
  • For extra flavor, use Irish-style whole wheat flour if available
  • Store leftover bread wrapped in a tea towel to maintain the crust texture
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