Save Golden, buttery twists of classic soda bread with a tender, flaky crumb—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory snack.
I first tried soda bread twists for a St. Patrick's Day brunch and everyone loved their soft layers and golden edges—they disappeared within minutes!
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups (375 g), plus extra for dusting
- Baking soda: 1½ tsp
- Fine sea salt: 1 tsp
- Granulated sugar: 2 tsp
- Buttermilk: 1 cup (240 ml), chilled
- Unsalted butter: ⅓ cup (75 g), cold and cubed
- Egg: 1 large, lightly beaten (for brushing)
- Sesame seeds: 1 tbsp (optional topping)
- Poppy seeds: 1 tbsp (optional topping)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1 tbsp (optional topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in butter:
- Add cold cubed butter. Rub into flour using pastry cutter or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add buttermilk:
- Pour in chilled buttermilk. Stir gently with fork until dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
- Knead briefly:
- Turn dough onto lightly floured surface. Knead for 30 seconds to form soft dough.
- Shape and slice:
- Roll dough into rectangle about ½ inch (1.3 cm) thick. Cut into 10 strips, each about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.
- Twist and arrange:
- Twist each strip and place on prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Brush and top:
- Brush tops with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or Parmesan.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden brown and flaky.
- Cool and serve:
- Cool slightly on wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save My family loves sharing these twists at our weekend breakfasts—the aroma fills the kitchen and they always ask for seconds.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, pastry cutter or fork, rolling pin, sharp knife or pizza cutter, baking sheet, pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains gluten, dairy, and egg. For allergen-friendly options, use non-dairy substitutes and omit egg wash.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 185, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 26 g, Protein 4 g.
Save Try experimenting with different seeds or cheeses on top for your own signature twist. They're quick to make and even quicker to disappear from the table!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I make these twists ahead of time?
Twists are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container and briefly reheated before serving.
- → Are there alternative toppings I can use?
Try shredded cheddar, chopped fresh herbs, or leave them plain for a classic finish—customize as you wish.
- → Is it possible to make these twists gluten-free?
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and adjust liquid as needed for dough consistency.
- → What is the best way to serve the twists?
They pair well with butter, jam, or alongside soups and salads for a satisfying bite.
- → Can I omit dairy and eggs for allergy concerns?
Use non-dairy butter and milk substitutes. Skip the egg wash or substitute with plant milk for brushing.
- → How do I achieve a flaky texture?
Keep butter cold, work quickly, and avoid overmixing the dough for tender, flaky results.