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Cozy Irish Soda Bread with Raisins

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A quick and easy Irish soda bread recipe with raisins that yields a soft, tender loaf perfect for cozy moments and comforting snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 ¾ cups (420ml) buttermilk (or 1 ¾ cups milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, let sit 5 minutes)
  • ¾ cup (110g) raisins
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional, for brushing)
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position a rack in the middle of the oven.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar until well combined.
  3. Stir in the raisins evenly through the dry mix to prevent them from sinking.
  4. Make a well in the center and add the buttermilk. Gently mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 3-4 times to form a rough ball. The dough should be soft and a bit shaggy.
  6. Pat the dough into a round about 7 inches (18cm) wide and 2 inches (5cm) high. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or cast-iron skillet.
  7. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep ‘X’ across the top of the dough to help it expand while baking.
  8. Optionally, brush the top with melted butter for a soft crust.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  10. Cool the bread on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Do not overmix the dough to keep the bread tender and crumbly. Use a sharp knife to score the top with a confident ‘X’ to allow even expansion. If the crust browns too fast, tent with foil halfway through baking. Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture. For a softer crust, brush with melted butter after baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish soda bread, soda bread with raisins, quick bread, easy bread recipe, homemade bread, comfort food, baking, traditional Irish bread