This loaf deserves to be called improved because, thanks to the addition of yogurt, honey, and a little oil, it has a moister, more tender crumb than traditional soda bread. Due to the yogurt it also keeps better and has more protein than classic versions prepared with just buttermilk.
I use some whole wheat flour not only for the fiber and nutrients, but because its wheaty flavor is extremely appealing. But, if preferred, you can use all white flour with excellent results.
The bread is at its best served still warm from the oven with, as the Irish say, “lashings” of butter. (Our butter was excellent, made from Gurnsey cow milk we churned ourselves.) But the bread is quite good wrapped in foil and reheated on the second or even third day. And, if sliced rather than cut into wedges as shown in the picture, it’s also good for toast. (For a good recipe that’s a little quicker, check on my
applesauce raisin muffins.)