Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prep the Dutch Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
2. Place a Dutch oven (with the lid on) inside the oven while it preheats. This helps create a crispy crust by trapping steam inside.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. If using butter, cut it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently until the dough comes together. If it’s too dry, add a little more buttermilk, a tablespoon at a time.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

1. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead just a few times (don’t overwork it!).
2. Shape it into a round loaf, about 2 inches thick.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep “X” into the top—this helps it bake evenly and gives it a classic soda bread look.

Step 4: Bake in the Dutch Oven

1. Carefully remove the preheated Dutch oven from the oven and place a piece of parchment paper inside.
2. Transfer the dough onto the parchment, cover with the Dutch oven lid, and bake for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the lid and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Cool & Enjoy

1. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm with butter, honey, jam, or alongside a hearty meal.