Irish Soda Bread
This traditional Irish soda bread is easy and a great way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.
Servings: 1 Loaf
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter or margarine softened
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Extra butter or margarine for basting
Instructions
- Cut butter into flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt in a large bowl until resembles fine crumbs.. (I use a fork to do this.Some people us a pastry blender)
- Stir in raisins and buttermilk. (I soak my raisins in boiling water for 30 minutes but this is not necessary).
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead several times until smooth. Shape into a round loaf. Place on a sprayed cookie sheet.
- Cut an X shape about 1/2 inch deep into the top of the loaf. Baste the loaf with melted butter before baking and again a couple of times while baking. Cook in preheated 375 degree oven 35 to 45 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
Legend says the cross or X is cut into the top of the bread to ward off evil spirits. Don’t leave the X off!!!