Ingredients
1 and 3/4 cups buttermilk reacts with baking soda to give the characteristic rise and moisture while adding a subtle tangy flavor
1 large egg adds richness and improves the structure, creating a slightly lighter loaf with a golden color
4 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting provides the structure and body of the bread
3 tablespoons granulated sugar provides a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the buttermilk and helps with browning
1 teaspoon baking soda acts as the leavening agent to help the bread rise without yeast by reacting with acidic buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt enhances flavor and balances the taste, bringing out the subtle sweetness in the bread
5 tablespoons unsalted cold butter, cubed adds richness and creates flaky layers when it melts during baking, resulting in a more tender crumb
1 cup raisins adds natural sweetness and texture, commonly found in “Spotted Dog” variety of Irish soda bread
Instructions
1-Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C). Prepare a baking vessel such as a lined baking sheet, a 10-12 inch cast iron skillet, a greased 9-10 inch cake pan or pie dish, or a 5-quart dutch oven (if using a dutch oven, bake uncovered).
2-Whisk together the buttermilk and egg. In a separate large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3-Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until pea-sized crumbs form. Stir in raisins if using.
4-Combine wet and dry ingredients. Pour the buttermilk and egg mixture into the flour mixture, folding gently until the dough is too stiff to stir.
5-Shape the dough. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a ball, and knead briefly until fully moistened, adding flour if sticky.
6-Prepare for baking. Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and score an X or slash about half an inch deep on top.
7-Bake. Place in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, aiming for an internal temperature of about 195°F (90°C).
8-Cool and serve. Let cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm, at room temperature, or toasted.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🍀 Do not overwork the dough to keep it slightly shaggy and tender.
❄️ Use cold butter to create a better texture in the bread.
✂️ Score the dough deeply to help it bake evenly and develop a beautiful crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Bread, Quick Bread
- Method: Mixing, Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg