Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread is a quick bread that’s easier to make than you might think.  This raisin-filled bread makes a wonderful breakfast treat but is also a must at St. Paddy’s Day dinners alongside shepherd’s pie and corned beef and cabbage!

I’ve been making Irish soda bread for over two decades now and it’s most certainly a favorite in our home.

I’ll usually make 3-4 loaves at a time for our annual St. Paddy’s Day dinner because it goes fast!

It’s best served with Irish Butter and orange marmalade and is just as good for breakfast as it is for dinner alongside Jim’s shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, or Guinness stew!

How to make it

Each number corresponds to the numbered written steps below.

1. Preheat the oven to 400f and set a rack to the middle level.  Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and cube 4 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter.  In a large bowl combine 3 cups (360g) of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a 1/2 teaspoon of salt and mix until combined.  Add the butter and using your hands or a pastry cutter, combine until the butter disappears.

2. Add 1 cup (149g) of raisins to the flour mixture and mix until combined.
3. In a small bowl add 1 cup (227g) of buttermilk and 1 large egg, whisking until combined. Pour the buttermilk mixture into the flour mixture.

4. Use a fork to combine the buttermilk and flour, then, with floured hands shape the mixture into a large ball.  Place the ball onto a floured surface and knead just enough for it to come together in a shaggy dough ball.  Note: Please don’t overmix which will make the bread tough instead of flaky.
5. Transfer the ball to the lined baking sheet and use a sharp knife to cut a cross, or an X, about 1/2 inch deep into the top of the dough.

6. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350f and continue to bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.  Transfer to a wire rack to cool and serve with butter, jam, or marmalade.  Enjoy!

Top tips for Irish soda bread

• Don’t overmix! Much like our chocolate chip scones, Irish soda bread shouldn’t be overmixed.  The bread should be kneaded enough just to bring it together so it can be shaped into a circle.
• Buttermilk. Buttermilk is widely available in most grocery stores, but if you’re unable to find it, you can make your own using milk and white vinegar.  Simply add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to a measuring cup and fill it with enough milk to equal 1 cup. Stir the mixture and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
• Additions. Most store-bought Irish soda bread will include raisins, and some may include caraway seeds.  If you’d like to add caraway seeds to this Irish soda bread 2 teaspoons worth should suffice.

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