Description
This Irish Soda Bread stands out with its delightful flavor and simple preparation. Made with buttermilk and optional raisins, it’s a wonderful addition to any meal, perfect for sharing during festive occasions. Enjoy warm slices with butter for a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ¾ cups raisins or currants, optional
- ⅔ cup Irish whiskey, apple juice, or white grape juice, optional
- 4 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ¾ cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs + 2 yolks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; divided
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray. Alternatively, preheat a 9-inch cast iron skillet while greasing it well with butter.
- If soaking raisins, place them in a medium bowl and pour the soaking liquid over them; let stand while preparing other ingredients.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, yolks, 3 tablespoons melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula without overmixing.
- If using raisins, drain them and fold into the dough gently.
- Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet (or greased skillet) and shape it into a round loaf.
- Score the top of the dough with a large X, about ½-inch deep.
- Brush the top of the dough with the remaining melted butter and optionally sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
- Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until golden brown and cooked through in the middle; check for doneness to avoid overbaking.
- Cool completely before slicing and serving with butter.
Notes
For best results, use fresh buttermilk. Whole milk mixed with vinegar can serve as a substitute.
Ensure not to overmix the dough for a tender crumb.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg