Irish Soda Bread With Raisins

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of fresh baking bread that fills your home, and that’s exactly what you’ll experience when making Irish Soda Bread With Raisins. Growing up, my grandmother would bake this delicious bread every Sunday. It became a cherished family tradition, an event that brought us all together around the kitchen table. The warm scent of baking bread mingled with the sweet hint of raisins is something I still remember fondly. As the bread would rise and bake, we’d eagerly wait, anticipation building as we set the table for our meal. This bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of heritage and comfort that warms the heart. Whether you’re enjoying it with butter and jam or serving it alongside a hearty stew, Irish Soda Bread With Raisins is versatile and incredibly satisfying.

Key Ingredients for Irish Soda Bread With Raisins

The ingredients in Irish Soda Bread With Raisins are simple yet effective, each playing a vital role in crafting the perfect loaf. The star ingredient is definitely the all-purpose flour, which provides the structure. The buttermilk is essential for creating that lovely acidity that interacts with the baking soda to give the bread its rise. Raisins add a touch of sweetness and chewiness, making every bite a little bit of heaven. Together, they create a harmonious blend that results in a traditional Irish treat.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour – This is the foundation of your bread, giving it structure and body.
• 4 tablespoons sugar (granulated white) – A touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – This is the leavening agent that helps the bread rise.
• 1½ teaspoons salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces) – Adds richness and flavor.
• 1 ¾ cups buttermilk (cold, shaken) – The acidity helps activate the baking soda for a nice rise.
• 1 large egg (lightly beaten) – Adds moisture and richness.
• 1 cup raisins – These provide natural sweetness and delightful texture.

Instructions for Irish Soda Bread With Raisins

Making Irish Soda Bread With Raisins is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s walk through the steps together, and soon you’ll be enjoying homemade bread right out of your oven. Each step is designed to bring out the best in your ingredients and create a loaf that you’ll be proud to serve.

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a dutch oven with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray. If you don’t have a dutch oven, a cast iron skillet or a cookie sheet will work just fine.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well combined. You want to ensure there are no clumps of ingredients.
3. Place the raisins in a medium bowl and sprinkle about 2 teaspoons of the flour mixture over them. Toss to coat the raisins, which helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the bread while baking.
4. Next, use a pastry blender to cut the cold butter into the flour mixture. You’re looking for pieces of butter that are about the same size as regular blueberries; they should be well incorporated but still visible.
5. In another medium bowl, combine buttermilk and the egg. Beat the mixture lightly with a fork until the egg yolk cracks and mixes in, creating a cohesive liquid.
6. Add the liquid ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms. You want to be gentle here; overmixing can lead to tough bread.
7. Fold the coated raisins into the dough. Stop mixing once the dough feels too stiff to mix. You’ll know you’ve reached the right consistency.
8. Flour a clean counter or surface generously. Divide the dough in half and knead each portion lightly, adding more flour as needed until the dough is not sticky. Knead for about thirty to forty-five seconds per piece until it becomes smooth.
9. Form the two pieces of dough into a single ball. Place this dough ball in the lined dutch oven or on your chosen baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, make an X-shaped cut on the top of the bread. This will help the bread expand without cracking during baking.
10. Bake for about 45 to 55 minutes. The bread should turn a lovely golden brown on the outside and feel fully cooked in the center. You can check doneness with a digital thermometer; it’s done when it reaches about 195 degrees Fahrenheit. After baking, let cool for 5 to 10 minutes, then slice and enjoy!

Customization Ideas

While Irish Soda Bread With Raisins is delightful as is, you might want to explore some customizations to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to make this recipe your own:

• Storage: To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze slices of the bread for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
• Pairing: Serve with homemade jams or butter for a delicious breakfast or snack. It’s also great alongside soups and stews.
• Flavor Variations: Try adding different dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a unique twist.
• Herbs and Spices: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth. A pinch of caraway seeds can also provide an interesting flavor.

What to Serve With Irish Soda Bread With Raisins

When it comes to serving Irish Soda Bread With Raisins, the possibilities are endless. This versatile bread complements many dishes and occasions:

• Hearty Soups: Pair your bread with a warm bowl of vegetable or chicken soup. The crusty exterior is perfect for dunking.
• Breakfast Delight: Enjoy slices toasted with butter and your favorite jam for a fulfilling breakfast option.
• Picnic Perfect: Cut into slices for a delightful addition to any picnic spread. It pairs beautifully with cheeses and fresh fruits.
• Festive Occasions: Serve during holidays or family gatherings. It’s a comforting addition to any meal, adding warmth to your table.
• Storage Tips: Keep in mind to store leftover bread in a cool place to maintain its freshness. It also makes great toast!

FAQ

Conclusion

Irish Soda Bread With Raisins is a wonderful blend of tradition and simplicity, making it a beloved recipe in many homes. Its warm, crusty exterior and soft, flavorful center create a comforting experience that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s not only quick and easy to make, but it also brings a taste of Ireland into your kitchen. Enjoy the process of baking and savor the delicious results with family and friends!

Irish Soda Bread With Raisins

The ultimate comfort food, Irish Soda Bread With Raisins is a warm, crusty delight that’s perfect for any occasion. With its soft interior and hint of sweetness from the raisins, it's an easy weeknight treat. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, you’ll find yourself craving this homemade bread time and again!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine Irish

Servings 8 pieces

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Silicone Spatula
• 6 Quart Dutch Oven
• Parchment Paper

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons sugar granulated white
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter cold, cut into small pieces
• 1.75 cups buttermilk cold, shaken
• 1 large egg lightly beaten
• 1 cup raisins

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a dutch oven with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray. If you don't have a dutch oven, a cast iron skillet or a cookie sheet will work just fine.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well combined. You want to ensure there are no clumps of ingredients.
• Place the raisins in a medium bowl and sprinkle about 2 teaspoons of the flour mixture over them. Toss to coat the raisins, which helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the bread while baking.
• Next, use a pastry blender to cut the cold butter into the flour mixture. You're looking for pieces of butter that are about the same size as regular blueberries; they should be well incorporated but still visible.
• In another medium bowl, combine buttermilk and the egg. Beat the mixture lightly with a fork until the egg yolk cracks and mixes in, creating a cohesive liquid.
• Add the liquid ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms. You want to be gentle here; overmixing can lead to tough bread.
• Fold the coated raisins into the dough. Stop mixing once the dough feels too stiff to mix. You’ll know you’ve reached the right consistency.
• Flour a clean counter or surface generously. Divide the dough in half and knead each portion lightly, adding more flour as needed until the dough is not sticky. Knead for about thirty to forty-five seconds per piece until it becomes smooth.
• Form the two pieces of dough into a single ball. Place this dough ball in the lined dutch oven or on your chosen baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, make an X-shaped cut on the top of the bread. This will help the bread expand without cracking during baking.
• Bake for about 45 to 55 minutes. The bread should turn a lovely golden brown on the outside and feel fully cooked in the center. You can check doneness with a digital thermometer; it’s done when it reaches about 195 degrees Fahrenheit. After baking, let cool for 5 to 10 minutes, then slice and enjoy!

Notes

Sometimes the outside of the bread can begin to brown too fast. You can cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep the top from becoming too crispy or burning as needed.

Keyword easy Irish soda bread, homemade Irish bread, Irish bread recipe, soda bread with raisins

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Meet Penny Porter

I bring the energy to our cooking sessions. I don’t have a “specialty” because I love it all I’m just as happy kneading dough as I am stirring a spicy curry. My favorite part of being on this team is the variety. One day we’re making pasta from scratch, and the next we’re grilling outdoors. I love the fast-paced creative process and am always the first one to grab an apron when a new idea pops up.