45+ Traditional Holiday Dairy-Free Irish Recipes to Celebrate the Season

The holiday season is a time to gather with loved ones, enjoy comforting meals, and create memories around the dinner table.

But for those following a dairy-free lifestyle, traditional holiday recipes can sometimes feel off-limits.

Fear not! Irish cuisine, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, offers a wealth of dairy-free options perfect for the festive season.

From breads and stews to decadent desserts, there are countless ways to incorporate the rich flavors of Ireland into your holiday menu—without the dairy.

In this blog, we’ll share over 45 dairy-free Irish recipes that will have everyone at the table enjoying the warmth and heartiness of Irish cooking, no matter their dietary restrictions.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting bread, a rich dessert, or a savory main dish, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your holiday needs.

45+ Traditional Holiday Dairy-Free Irish Recipes to Celebrate the Season

This holiday season, let dairy-free Irish recipes be the star of your festive gatherings.

With these 45+ delicious dishes, you can embrace the spirit of Irish cuisine while keeping things light and dairy-free.

Whether you’re making a traditional Irish soda bread, serving up a hearty vegetable stew, or treating your guests to a spiced fruit cake, these recipes will bring warmth, flavor, and joy to your celebrations.

Dairy-free doesn’t mean sacrificing taste—it means embracing new ways to enjoy the foods you love.

So, get ready to share the joy of Irish cooking with everyone around your holiday table, knowing that each dish is crafted with care and consideration for every dietary need.

Dairy-Free Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread is a classic, hearty bread that has been a staple in Irish homes for centuries. This dairy-free version uses almond milk and dairy-free margarine, offering the same hearty texture and rich flavor without any dairy. It’s perfect for any holiday table, served warm with jam, or as a side to your favorite soups and stews.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
• 1 cup almond milk (or any dairy-free milk)
• 1/4 cup dairy-free margarine, melted
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the almond milk, melted margarine, and apple cider vinegar. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The dough will be sticky.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently for about 1-2 minutes. Shape it into a round loaf.
6. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet and cut a cross into the top with a sharp knife.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

This dairy-free Irish soda bread is a wonderful addition to any holiday meal. The bread is easy to make and has a perfect balance of texture: crusty on the outside and soft and crumbly on the inside. It pairs beautifully with dairy-free spreads, such as vegan butter or fruit preserves, and can be served alongside soups, stews, or as an accompaniment to a hearty holiday breakfast. Whether for a Christmas dinner or a cozy holiday brunch, this bread brings a warm, rustic touch to the celebration.

Dairy-Free Irish Potato Soup

Irish potato soup is a rich and creamy dish, typically made with butter and cream. This dairy-free version swaps in coconut milk and olive oil, resulting in a velvety soup with a rich texture and comforting flavors of leeks, potatoes, and herbs. It’s perfect as a starter for a holiday meal or as a cozy lunch option to warm up on chilly winter days.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the leeks and onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, until soft.
2. Add the garlic and thyme, stirring for another minute.
3. Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
4. Lower the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and easily mashable.
5. Once the potatoes are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
6. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk. Heat the soup over low heat, stirring occasionally, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

This dairy-free Irish potato soup offers the creamy texture and rich flavor that make the dish such a comforting classic. The coconut milk provides a luxurious, velvety consistency that blends beautifully with the earthy potatoes, while the leeks and thyme give it an aromatic depth. This soup is an ideal holiday starter that will please even those who aren’t following a dairy-free diet. It’s nourishing, easy to make, and perfect for serving during cozy holiday gatherings, offering warmth and comfort in every spoonful.

Dairy-Free Irish Coffee Cake

This dairy-free Irish coffee cake is an indulgent treat with the perfect balance of rich coffee flavor and a crumbly, tender texture. It’s infused with Irish whiskey for that signature depth of flavor, making it a festive addition to any holiday spread. This cake can be served as a decadent breakfast or a delightful dessert to finish off your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup dairy-free margarine, softened
• 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan)
• 1 cup brewed strong coffee (cooled)
• 1/4 cup Irish whiskey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup dairy-free milk
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the dairy-free margarine until creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix well.
4. Stir in the brewed coffee, Irish whiskey, vanilla extract, and dairy-free milk. Mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and sprinkle the brown sugar and chopped walnuts or pecans (if using) over the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

This dairy-free Irish coffee cake brings the delightful flavors of Irish whiskey and coffee together in a moist, delicious cake that’s perfect for any holiday occasion. The coffee flavor complements the slight bitterness of the Irish whiskey, while the cinnamon and brown sugar topping adds a comforting sweetness. It’s a versatile treat that works equally well as a festive breakfast or a rich dessert after a holiday meal. With its easy preparation and indulgent flavor, this Irish coffee cake will be the star of your holiday dessert table, delighting guests and family alike.

Dairy-Free Irish Stew

A comforting classic, Irish stew is traditionally made with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables, creating a hearty and filling dish perfect for chilly holiday dinners. This dairy-free version uses vegetable broth and olive oil for a rich flavor without any dairy, while keeping all the comforting, warming elements that make Irish stew a beloved dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 lb lamb stew meat, cubed (or use a plant-based substitute for a vegan version)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lamb (or plant-based substitute) and brown it on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, potatoes, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Return the lamb to the pot (if using) and simmer for an additional 20 minutes to reheat and infuse the flavors.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

This dairy-free Irish stew is a delicious and filling meal that brings comfort and warmth to any holiday gathering. The combination of tender vegetables, savory broth, and hearty lamb (or plant-based alternative) makes for a dish that satisfies and nourishes. This stew can be prepared in advance, and the flavors only improve as it sits, making it a perfect option for a holiday meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary needs. Serve it with a slice of dairy-free Irish soda bread for a complete, traditional meal.

Dairy-Free Irish Breakfast

The Irish breakfast is a hearty meal that typically includes eggs, sausage, black pudding, beans, and toast. This dairy-free version swaps in plant-based sausages and eggs made with chickpea flour, giving you all the flavor and satisfaction without the dairy. It’s perfect for a festive brunch or a hearty holiday breakfast to start the day.

Ingredients:

• 4 dairy-free sausages (plant-based)
• 2 medium tomatoes, halved
• 4 large mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can baked beans (check for dairy-free)
• 1 cup chickpea flour
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp black salt (optional, for egg flavor)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 slices of whole-grain bread (or your choice of bread)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the plant-based sausages and cook according to the package instructions, usually for 5-7 minutes.
2. In the same skillet, add the halved tomatoes and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly charred.
3. While the vegetables and sausages are cooking, make the chickpea flour “eggs.” In a mixing bowl, combine chickpea flour, water, turmeric, and black salt. Whisk until smooth.
4. Heat the olive oil in another pan over medium heat. Pour the chickpea flour mixture into the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to create a scramble.
5. In a small pot, heat the baked beans over low heat.
6. Toast the slices of bread and serve them alongside the cooked sausages, tomatoes, mushrooms, chickpea flour scramble, and baked beans. Garnish with fresh parsley.

This dairy-free Irish breakfast provides all the hearty flavors of a traditional Irish breakfast without the dairy. The plant-based sausages and chickpea flour scramble offer a delicious and satisfying alternative to the usual ingredients. Combined with baked beans, sautéed vegetables, and toasted bread, it makes for a complete and energizing meal. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday brunch or enjoying a cozy breakfast with family, this dairy-free Irish breakfast is sure to keep everyone full and satisfied for hours.

Dairy-Free Guinness Chocolate Cake

This dairy-free Guinness chocolate cake is a rich and indulgent dessert perfect for the holidays. The Guinness beer adds a deep, complex flavor that enhances the chocolate, while the dairy-free ingredients ensure that everyone can enjoy this treat. With a moist texture and decadent taste, this cake is a showstopper for any holiday dessert table.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Guinness beer (make sure it’s dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup dairy-free margarine
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup dairy-free milk (like almond or oat milk)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
• 2 tbsp dairy-free margarine (for icing)
• 1 tbsp Guinness beer (for icing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the dairy-free margarine and Guinness beer together. Once melted, whisk in the cocoa powder until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the dairy-free milk and vanilla extract, and beat until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the Guinness mixture, stirring until smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. While the cake is baking, make the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, dairy-free margarine, and Guinness beer until smooth.
8. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the icing over the top.

This dairy-free Guinness chocolate cake is an indulgent and festive dessert that brings together the flavors of rich chocolate and the deep, malty notes of Guinness beer. Its moist, decadent texture and luscious frosting make it an impressive centerpiece for your holiday dessert table. Perfect for those avoiding dairy, this cake is sure to impress guests and provide a memorable finish to any holiday meal. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or any holiday gathering, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.

Dairy-Free Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread is a traditional favorite, and this dairy-free version ensures that everyone can enjoy its hearty, slightly sweet flavor without any dairy. With a perfect balance of soft texture and a lightly crisp crust, this bread makes a wonderful accompaniment to soups, stews, or even on its own with a little dairy-free butter.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 cup dairy-free buttermilk (made by adding 1 tbsp lemon juice to 1 cup almond milk, let sit for 5 minutes)
• 1/4 cup dairy-free margarine, melted
• 1 tbsp caraway seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the dairy-free buttermilk and melted margarine. Stir until just combined into a sticky dough. If using, stir in the caraway seeds.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for about 1 minute. Form it into a round loaf shape.
5. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet and score the top with a sharp knife to create an “X” shape.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

This dairy-free Irish soda bread is a classic, hearty recipe that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The bread’s slightly tangy flavor from the buttermilk and its tender crumb make it perfect for any holiday table. It’s an excellent accompaniment to your favorite stews, soups, or even enjoyed on its own with a spread of dairy-free butter. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this soda bread will become a staple in your holiday traditions.

Dairy-Free Colcannon

Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish made of mashed potatoes, cabbage, and butter. This dairy-free version swaps out butter for a rich, plant-based alternative, while still preserving the comforting and hearty flavors. Perfect for pairing with any holiday main course, this dish is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups cabbage, chopped
• 1/4 cup dairy-free margarine
• 1/2 cup dairy-free milk (such as oat or almond milk)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, heat a separate pan over medium heat. Add the cabbage and a splash of water, cooking for 5-7 minutes until wilted.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with a potato masher until smooth.
4. Stir in the dairy-free margarine and dairy-free milk until creamy. Add the cooked cabbage and green onions, and mix until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

This dairy-free colcannon is a flavorful twist on a classic Irish dish that’s sure to be a hit at any holiday dinner. The creamy mashed potatoes combined with the tender cabbage make for a comforting side dish that pairs well with stews, roasts, or any hearty holiday main course. The dairy-free margarine and milk provide all the richness without compromising on flavor. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a comforting, dairy-free alternative to the traditional Irish colcannon.

Dairy-Free Irish Cream Liqueur

A festive and rich holiday drink, Irish cream liqueur is a beloved classic. This dairy-free version is smooth, creamy, and flavorful, made with coconut milk and whiskey, perfect for celebrating the season. Enjoy it on its own, or add a splash to your coffee or favorite holiday cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup dairy-free heavy cream (such as coconut cream or almond cream)
• 1 cup Irish whiskey (or any whiskey of choice)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave syrup
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp instant coffee (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the coconut milk, dairy-free heavy cream, whiskey, vanilla extract, almond extract, maple syrup, cocoa powder, and instant coffee (if using).
2. Blend on high speed for 30 seconds until smooth and well combined.
3. Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness or flavor as desired.
4. Pour the Irish cream into a clean bottle or jar, and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
5. Shake well before serving. Enjoy chilled or in coffee, over ice, or in a festive cocktail.

This dairy-free Irish cream liqueur is a rich and indulgent treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. The combination of coconut milk and whiskey offers a smooth and creamy texture, while the maple syrup and cocoa powder add a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor. This homemade version allows you to enjoy the traditional Irish cream experience without the dairy, making it accessible to those with dietary restrictions. Whether you sip it on its own or use it in holiday cocktails, this dairy-free Irish cream liqueur will be a crowd favorite this season.

Dairy-Free Irish Stew

Irish stew is a warming and hearty dish, traditionally made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions. This dairy-free version replaces the meat with tender, flavorful vegetables and herbs, making it an excellent choice for those following a plant-based or dairy-free diet. It’s a comforting and filling meal that captures the essence of Irish cuisine while being inclusive of all dietary needs.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing for 3-5 minutes until softened.
2. Add the potatoes, carrots, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
3. Stir in the peas, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

This dairy-free Irish stew is a wholesome and comforting dish that captures the heart of Irish cuisine. The combination of tender vegetables, savory herbs, and rich vegetable broth makes this stew a satisfying meal that is perfect for the holiday season. It can be served as a stand-alone dish or paired with some warm, dairy-free bread for a complete meal. It’s an excellent choice for vegans and anyone who enjoys a hearty, filling stew without the need for dairy or meat.

Dairy-Free Irish Apple Cake

An Irish apple cake is a moist, slightly spiced dessert that’s a true celebration of autumn flavors. In this dairy-free version, we substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative and use almond milk for the perfect texture. The tartness of the apples combined with the warmth of cinnamon makes it a perfect holiday treat, and it’s ideal served with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or whipped coconut cream.

Ingredients:

• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup dairy-free margarine (melted)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup almond milk (or any dairy-free milk)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the sugar, melted margarine, almond milk, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples and raisins (if using).
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

This dairy-free Irish apple cake is the perfect dessert to end your holiday meal on a sweet note. The moist cake, filled with tender apple chunks and warm spices, is a comforting treat that will remind you of the cozy flavors of fall. The dairy-free margarine and almond milk allow everyone to enjoy this classic Irish cake without compromising on taste or texture. Whether served as a standalone dessert or with a dollop of coconut whipped cream, this cake will be the highlight of your holiday dessert table.

Dairy-Free Irish Breakfast Tea Loaf

Irish breakfast tea is a staple in many Irish households, and this tea-infused loaf brings the warmth and comforting flavors of tea to life in a cake form. This dairy-free version uses tea to flavor the loaf and adds dried fruits like raisins and currants for sweetness and texture. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon tea, this loaf is a simple and delicious addition to your holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups dried mixed fruit (raisins, currants, and sultanas)
• 1 cup strong brewed Irish breakfast tea (cooled)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup dairy-free margarine (melted)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan version)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, pour the cooled Irish breakfast tea over the dried fruit and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted margarine, sugar, egg (or flax egg), and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, then fold in the soaked dried fruit with its liquid.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

This dairy-free Irish breakfast tea loaf is a delightful and comforting treat that’s perfect for any holiday breakfast or tea time. The rich flavor of the Irish breakfast tea combined with the sweetness of the dried fruit makes for a deliciously moist and aromatic loaf. It’s a great way to incorporate the flavors of Ireland into your holiday festivities, while offering a dairy-free alternative that everyone can enjoy. This loaf pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea, making it a perfect way to start your holiday mornings or enjoy a cozy afternoon snack.

Dairy-Free Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread is a traditional staple in Irish kitchens, known for its simplicity and rustic texture. This dairy-free version keeps all the hearty, comforting flavors of the original but uses dairy-free milk and margarine as substitutes. It’s quick to make, requiring no yeast or rising time, making it an excellent addition to your holiday bread basket.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 cup dairy-free margarine (cold)
• 1 1/2 cups dairy-free milk (such as almond or oat milk)
• 1 tbsp white vinegar (to make buttermilk)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a round baking pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Cut the cold margarine into small cubes and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the dairy-free milk and vinegar to create a dairy-free “buttermilk.” Let it sit for a few minutes until it curdles.
5. Pour the “buttermilk” into the flour mixture and stir until just combined into a sticky dough.
6. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf. Place it onto the prepared baking pan and score a cross on top with a sharp knife.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing.

This dairy-free Irish soda bread is a quick and delicious alternative to traditional Irish bread. Its dense yet soft texture and hearty flavor make it the perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, or even enjoyed with a bit of dairy-free butter and jam. The simplicity of this bread means you can easily bake it on a holiday morning, filling your kitchen with the irresistible scent of fresh-baked bread. It’s a perfect dairy-free option that everyone will love.

Dairy-Free Irish Coffee Cake

This indulgent Irish coffee cake combines the robust flavor of Irish coffee with a moist, dairy-free cake base. Perfect for holiday brunches or as an afternoon treat, this cake is infused with the essence of coffee and spiced with a hint of cinnamon. With a crumbly, sugary topping and a tender, flavorful interior, this cake offers all the comforting flavors of an Irish coffee in dessert form.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
• 1 cup dairy-free yogurt (such as soy or coconut yogurt)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup dairy-free margarine (softened)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan version)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup dairy-free margarine
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the coffee and dairy-free yogurt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened margarine and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs (or flax eggs) and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients and the coffee-yogurt mixture, alternating between the two, until just combined. Stir in the chopped nuts, if using.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
7. For the topping, mix together the sugar, margarine, flour, and cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle it over the top of the cake batter.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

This dairy-free Irish coffee cake is a decadent, comforting treat that will become a holiday favorite. With its coffee-infused flavor and crumbly, spiced topping, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the warmth and richness of Irish coffee without dairy. Serve it at a holiday brunch or enjoy a slice with a cup of tea for an afternoon treat. This cake will surely be a crowd-pleaser, loved by both coffee and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Dairy-Free Irish Gravy

No Irish meal is complete without a rich, flavorful gravy, and this dairy-free version will make sure you don’t miss out. Made with vegetable broth, fresh herbs, and a touch of flour for thickening, this gravy pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roast vegetables, or any holiday main dish. It’s simple to prepare and packed with savory flavor that enhances every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons dairy-free margarine
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/4 tsp dried rosemary)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the dairy-free margarine in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, making sure the flour is well incorporated.
3. Slowly add the vegetable broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

This dairy-free Irish gravy is the perfect addition to any holiday feast. The rich, savory flavor from the broth and herbs makes it a versatile sauce that complements a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a hearty roast, this gravy brings a comforting, homey touch to your meal. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that proves you don’t need dairy to create a flavorful, indulgent sauce.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!