Air fryer Irish soda bread breakfast bites came together after I overbaked a full loaf one March morning. The outside was perfect, but the center stayed doughy. I didn’t want to heat the oven again, so I tested smaller portions in the air fryer instead. After trying different temperatures and shaping methods, I finally landed on bite-sized rounds that cook evenly all the way through. The crust turns lightly crisp while the inside stays tender and slightly crumbly, just how soda bread should be.
Why This Air Fryer Irish Soda Bread Breakfast Bites Recipe Works
Traditional Irish soda bread bakes at high oven temperatures, usually around 400°F, which can brown the outside quickly. In the air fryer, that same heat can overcook the crust before the center sets.
After testing this three ways, 330°F (165°C) proved to be the sweet spot. The smaller size helps the baking soda activate evenly, creating a soft, tender crumb without dryness. Using cold buttermilk ensures a proper rise while keeping the texture classic. These air fryer Irish soda bread breakfast bites cook faster, brown evenly, and are perfect for individual servings.
Timing for Air Fryer Irish Soda Bread Breakfast Bites
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 15–17 minutes
Ingredients for Air Fryer Irish Soda Bread Breakfast Bites
Simple, traditional ingredients keep it authentic.
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup cold buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- Orange zest for brightness
How to Make Irish Soda Bread Breakfast Bites in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for 3 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Stir in raisins or seeds if using.
- Add cold buttermilk and melted butter.
- Mix gently until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Divide dough into 4–6 small rounds and shape lightly with floured hands.
- Place on parchment paper with holes for airflow.
- Arrange bites in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
- Air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches about 200°F (93°C).
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Irish Soda Bread Breakfast Bites
- Don’t overmix: Overworking makes them dense.
- Use cold buttermilk: Helps create tender texture.
- Keep them small: Large pieces may stay undercooked inside.
- Check at 10 minutes: Smaller air fryers cook faster.
- Light flour dusting: Prevents sticking.
- Serve warm: Best texture right after cooking.
Storing and Reheating Irish Soda Bread Breakfast Bites
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
Variations:
- Add shredded cheddar for a savory twist.
- Swap raisins for dried cranberries.
- Brush tops with melted butter after cooking.
- Serve with honey butter or jam.
Conclusion
Air fryer Irish soda bread breakfast bites are a simple, festive way to enjoy classic soda bread without baking a full loaf. The crisp exterior and tender crumb make them perfect for breakfast or brunch. Once you try them this way, the air fryer becomes your shortcut.
