Trending Now: The Viral Croissant Sourdough & St. Patrick’s Day Breads Taking Over March

Top Bread Baking Trends for March 2025: A Celebration of St. Patrick’s Day and the Flavors of Spring

As March rolls in, bringing with it the promise of spring and the lively spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, bakers are embracing new trends that reflect both seasonal flavors and festive traditions. This article highlights some of the top bread baking trends emerging this month, from Irish-inspired flavors to spring-infused loaves. Whether you’re baking for a gathering, gifting a loaf to a friend, or simply enjoying the meditative process of kneading dough, these trends will inspire you to bring something special to your table.

St. Patrick’s Day-Inspired Breads: Guinness, Gouda, and Irish Comfort

One of the biggest trends in March baking is incorporating Irish flavors and ingredients into bread, creating comforting loaves that honor St. Patrick’s Day traditions in new and exciting ways.

Guinness & Molasses Soda Bread – Imagine tearing into a thick slice of Irish soda bread, its crusty golden exterior giving way to a soft, slightly sweet crumb with hints of dark caramel and a malty depth from Guinness stout. This rustic bread pairs beautifully with a smear of salted butter or a slice of sharp cheddar. It’s a nod to Irish tradition, but with a modern twist that makes it irresistible. Try this Guinness bread recipe 

Smoked Gouda & Chive Artisan Loaf – Another March trend we’re seeing is the addition of creamy, melty cheeses like smoked Gouda to rustic, flavorful loaves. The nutty, slightly smoky flavor of Gouda blends perfectly with fresh chives in this artisan-style bread. The result is a beautifully golden crust and a soft, savory interior, ideal for pairing with soups or simply enjoying warm with a bit of butter. Try this smoked Gouda and chive artisan loaf recipe.

Vibrant Green Spinach & Herb Bread – This month, naturally green bread is gaining popularity as a fun and festive way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. By blending spinach or matcha into dough, bakers can achieve a stunning green hue without artificial coloring. The mild earthiness of spinach pairs wonderfully with garlic and Parmesan, making this a flavorful and eye-catching addition to the season’s lineup.

Colcannon-Stuffed Rolls – Another emerging trend is bringing traditional Irish side dishes into bread form. Inspired by colcannon—mashed potatoes mixed with cabbage or kale—these soft, pillowy rolls feature a creamy, garlicky colcannon filling baked inside. To make them, simply prepare a classic colcannon mixture, spoon it into circles of bread dough, seal them into rolls, and bake until golden. These handheld delights offer a comforting, savory bite that pairs beautifully with corned beef or Irish stew. Try this colcannon recipe as a filling base.

Croissant-Style Sourdough: The Viral Butter-Laminated Loaf

Another trend dominating March baking conversations is the viral croissant-style sourdough, a technique that blends the tangy chew of sourdough with the rich, flaky layers of a croissant. Popularized by Amy Bakes Bread, this method involves laminating a sourdough loaf with a full stick of butter, creating airy, buttery pockets within a crisp golden crust.

This trend is perfect for those who want a weekend baking project with a big payoff. The process of folding in butter may sound intimidating, but the end result—a loaf that shatters delicately as you bite in—is pure magic. Slather it with jam, use it for the ultimate grilled cheese, or enjoy it straight from the oven. Watch the tutorial here 

Spring-Inspired Floral & Herbal Breads

As March progresses and the first hints of spring emerge, another trend we’re seeing is the use of delicate floral and herbal flavors in bread baking. These ingredients bring a lightness and freshness to loaves, offering a contrast to the heartier bakes of winter.

Lavender & Honey Brioche – One of the biggest spring-inspired trends this month is the infusion of floral elements into bread. Buttery, slightly sweet brioche infused with culinary lavender and a drizzle of honey creates a loaf that’s as elegant as it is comforting. To make your own, start with a classic honey brioche recipe, such as this one from Epicurious. Try the honey brioche recipe here. To incorporate lavender, simply add 1-2 teaspoons of culinary lavender to the dough during mixing, ensuring even distribution. The lavender’s delicate floral notes pair beautifully with the sweetness of honey, making this a standout choice for spring brunches or afternoon tea.

Lemon & Thyme Focaccia – Another standout trend for March is the reinvention of focaccia with citrus and fresh herbs. A lemon-infused olive oil drizzle before baking brings a fresh zing, while fresh thyme adds a savory, aromatic touch. To make your own, follow a classic focaccia recipe and add lemon zest to the dough for a subtle citrus flavor. Before baking, arrange thin slices of lemon on top, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves for a fragrant and golden finish. Try this lemon and thyme focaccia recipe.

March is a time of transition—a bridge between cozy winter bakes and the light, vibrant flavors of spring. The biggest bread baking trends this month reflect both the comfort of tradition and the excitement of new flavors. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a malty Guinness loaf, indulging in layers of buttery sourdough, or welcoming spring with a floral-infused treat, there’s something magical about baking right now. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the scents of March fill your kitchen with warmth and joy.