Description
This Irish Soda Bread boasts irresistible flavor and a simple prep. With buttermilk and a hint of sweetness, it’s perfect for any occasion, from quick dinners to comforting snacks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ¾ cups raisins, or currants, optional
- ⅔ cup irish whiskey such as jameson, or 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 your oven to 350°F and prepare a nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray. Alternatively, preheat a 9-inch cast iron skillet with butter.
- If soaking raisins, add them to a bowl and cover with whiskey or juice. Let them sit while preparing the rest.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, whisking well. Set aside.
- In another bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, 3 tablespoons melted butter, and granulated sugar until combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently. Avoid overmixing.
- If using raisins, drain the soaking liquid and fold them into the dough with a spatula.
- Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet or greased skillet, shaping it into a round loaf. It may be sticky.
- Score an X on top of the dough using a knife, cutting about ½ inch deep.
- Brush the top with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
- Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Rotate halfway for even baking.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing. It will keep well at room temperature for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.
Notes
If using the cast iron skillet, make sure to grease it well with butter before placing the dough inside.
Baking times may vary; check early to prevent overbaking.
Fresh bread is best enjoyed within a few days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 199
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 305mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 68mg