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Classic Traditional Irish Soda Bread with Raisins and Caraway

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A quick and easy Irish soda bread recipe featuring raisins and caraway seeds, perfect for breakfast or tea time with a crusty exterior and tender crumb.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons caraway seeds
  • 1 ¾ cups (420ml) buttermilk
  • ½ cup (75g) raisins
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a round cake pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, sugar, and caraway seeds.
  3. Toss in the raisins, stirring them into the dry mixture.
  4. Make a well in the center and slowly pour in the buttermilk and melted butter (if using). Gently stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough just comes together; it will be sticky and shaggy.
  5. Lightly flour your hands and a clean surface, then shape the dough into a round loaf about 7 inches (18 cm) in diameter. Avoid over-kneading.
  6. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross into the top of the dough.
  7. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet or pan and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped underneath. Tent with foil if browning too fast.
  8. Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Do not overmix the dough to keep the bread tender. Use fresh baking soda for best rise. Score the dough deeply to control expansion. If dough is too dry, add a splash more buttermilk. Wrap cooled bread in a towel or paper bag to keep crust crisp. For gluten-free or dairy-free options, substitute flour and buttermilk accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish soda bread, traditional bread, quick bread, raisins, caraway seeds, easy bread recipe, homemade bread