Description
This Irish Soda Bread is a delightful combination of tender texture and rich flavor. With easy preparation and the option of raisins, it’s perfect for festive occasions or everyday meals!
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, use the extra whites for an omelette or scrambled eggs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; divided
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar, optional (granulated sugar may be substituted)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray. Alternatively, preheat a cast iron skillet with butter.
- If using raisins, soak them in Irish whiskey or juice in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In another bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, yolks, 3 tablespoons melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients using a wooden spoon without overmixing.
- If using raisins, drain them and fold into the dough gently with a spatula. Avoid overmixing.
- Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet or buttered cast iron skillet, shaping it into a round loaf.
- Score the top of the dough with a large X, about ½ inch deep.
- Brush the remaining melted butter over the dough and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
- Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Rotate halfway for even baking.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing. Serve with butter if desired. Store airtight for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
Notes
For extra sweetness, consider sprinkling turbinado sugar on top before baking.
Use a slotted spoon to gently fold in the soaked raisins to avoid excess liquid in your dough.
Ensure the bread cools fully before slicing to maintain its texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg