Traditional Irish Soda Bread with Raisins

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour a baking sheet or line with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar.
2. 2
   Cut in the cold cubed butter using your fingertips, a pastry blender, or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
3. 3
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the cold buttermilk. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough will be shaggy and slightly sticky.
4. 4
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead for about 1 minute, just enough to bring it together into a round loaf. Do not overwork the dough. Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet.
5. 5
   Using a sharp knife, cut a deep 'X' into the top of the loaf, extending almost to the edges. This helps the bread cook evenly and is traditional. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
6. 6
   Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Irish soda bread is best enjoyed fresh, ideally on the day it's baked.

Nutrition

Frequently Asked Questions