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Classic Homemade Irish Soda Bread with Sweet Raisins

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A quick and easy Irish soda bread recipe featuring sweet raisins for a tender, slightly sweet loaf with a crisp crust. Perfect for breakfast or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1¾ cups (420 ml) buttermilk (or milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar as substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (150 g) sweet raisins, soaked briefly in warm water or tea
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon caraway seeds

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a cast-iron skillet.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar until well combined.
  3. Place the raisins in a small bowl with warm water or tea for about 5-10 minutes to plump them up, then drain well (optional but recommended).
  4. Pour the buttermilk and melted butter into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. It will be sticky and shaggy—don’t overmix or knead.
  5. Gently incorporate the plumped raisins into the dough, distributing them evenly without overworking the batter.
  6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round loaf about 7 inches (18 cm) in diameter. Don’t knead—just pat and fold gently.
  7. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross (about 1/2 inch / 1.3 cm deep) into the top of the loaf.
  8. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet or skillet and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
  9. Transfer the bread to a cooling rack and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use fresh baking soda for best rise. Soak raisins to keep them juicy. Do not overmix or knead the dough to avoid toughness. Tent with foil if crust browns too quickly. The cross on top helps the bread rise evenly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish soda bread, homemade bread, quick bread, raisin bread, easy bread recipe, traditional Irish bread

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/classic-homemade-irish-soda-bread-with-sweet-raisins-easy-recipe-to-try-today/