Heavenly Irish soda bread with sweet raisins
Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m excited to share with you one of my favorite recipes – Irish Soda Bread with raisins! This bread recipe is a traditional Irish soda bread that’s been passed down in my family for generations. What makes it unique and oh so delicious is the addition of sweet, juicy raisins that make every bite a delightful explosion of flavor.
Making your own bread from scratch is an experience like no other. The aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands, and the taste of warm, soft, buttery bread – these are the things that make homemade bread so special.
But if you’re intimidated by the thought of making bread from scratch, don’t worry, this recipe is easy and foolproof. You don’t need any fancy equipment or special skills to create this Irish Soda Bread with raisins – just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time. Trust me, once you taste how amazing this bread is, you’ll never want to buy store-bought bread again. So let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a fan of homemade bread but tired of the same old options? Then look no further than this Irish Soda Bread with Raisins Recipe! Not only does it take just minutes to prepare, but it also uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, making it the perfect choice for a last-minute addition to any meal.
But why should you choose this recipe over others? For starters, the combination of raisins, buttermilk, and butter creates a sweet and slightly tangy flavor that is sure to excite your taste buds. Plus, the use of baking soda instead of traditional yeast means you don’t have to wait hours for your dough to rise – perfect for those who want fresh bread without the long wait times.
Not to mention, the versatility of this recipe means you can easily customize it to fit your preferences. Want to add nuts or caraway seeds? Go for it! Prefer a savory option? Simply omit the raisins and use salt instead of sugar.
Finally, let’s not forget about the health benefits of baking your own bread from scratch. With no added preservatives or chemicals, you can feel good about what you’re putting into your body. Plus, the act of kneading dough with your hands is not only therapeutic but can also provide a sense of accomplishment and pride in what you’ve created.
So go ahead and give this Irish Soda Bread with Raisins Recipe a try – we guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
Ingredient List
Before we get started with the recipe, it’s important to gather everything you need. Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need for this Irish Soda Bread with Raisins Recipe:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons caraway seeds
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 1 egg, beaten
- ¾ cup golden raisins
Make sure to measure your ingredients beforehand to ensure perfect results. You can also make substitutions and variations, which we will discuss later on. Now, let’s dive into the how-to of this recipe!
The Recipe How-To
With all of our ingredients ready to be mixed, let’s get started with the recipe how-to. The first step is to preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, you want to grab a large mixing bowl and combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix all these dry ingredients together until they are well-combined.
Then, add in 1 and 1/2 cups of buttermilk and mix until a wet dough forms. If your dough is too dry, feel free to add more buttermilk as needed. Now it’s time to add in the raisins. Use 1 and 1/2 cups of either golden or regular raisins into the dough.
Now that the dough is formed, turn it out onto a floured surface and gently knead it for a couple of minutes until it comes together into a smooth ball shape. With your dough now formed we can move onto the next steps.
Take an 8-inch cast-iron skillet, coat with butter or oil spray, place the kneaded ball-shaped bread dough into the skillet, and press it down slightly so it settles into the skillet.
You are almost there! Before popping your bread into the oven be sure to sprinkle some oats or flour on top of the bread so that while baking you create that traditional look.
Once your Irish Soda Bread with raisins recipe is ready, place it in your hot oven for about 40-45 minutes or until cooked through fully. You’ll know when the bread is finished when you hear a “hollow” sound when tapped.
Remove from oven to cool for 10-15 minutes then serve with butter, honey or jam. Your homemade bread is now ready to be enjoyed!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this Irish Soda Bread with Raisins recipe is that it’s very flexible and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are some suggestions for substitutions and variations that you can try:
1. Swap out the raisins for other dried fruit such as cranberries or apricots. You can also use a combination of different fruits to add a more complex flavor.
2. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of plain milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. For a savory twist, try adding caraway seeds to the dough. This is a traditional addition in Ireland and adds a bit of spice and crunchiness to the bread.
4. You can experiment with different types of flour in this recipe, such as whole wheat or rye flour, for a denser, heartier bread.
5. If you’re looking for a sweeter treat, add more sugar to the recipe or top the bread with a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking.
6. For a dairy-free version of this recipe, use plant-based milk and vegan butter instead of buttermilk and regular butter.
Remember that these substitutions may affect the texture and taste of the bread, so it’s important to experiment and find what works best for you. Regardless of which variations you choose, this soda bread will still have that classic Irish flavor and home-made charm that will leave everyone eager for another slice!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving Irish Soda Bread with Raisins, there are a variety of options that can take this traditional homemade bread to the next level. One classic method is to slice the bread and serve it warm with a pat of butter allowing the butter to melt on top for added richness. I always love toasting a thick slice and spreading some homemade jam or honey for breakfast or even as an afternoon snack.
For a more savory pairing, try serving slices of soda bread on a cheeseboard that includes Irish cheese such as Dubliner or Cahill’s Porter. The sweetness of the raisins pairs perfectly with tangy cheese and savory charcuterie slices such as prosciutto or salami. For those who like to eat it plain, the soda bread itself pair very well with any hot soup, stew or chowder.
A glass of Guinness or Irish whiskey is also an enjoyable accompaniment to this homemade bread recipe.
Keep in mind that because Irish Soda Bread with Raisins is relatively dense, it is best sliced thinly when served alongside other foods. However, with butter and jam smeared on top, you can definitely enjoy thick slices all by themselves!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
A freshly baked Irish Soda Bread with Raisins is a perfect treat on any day, but it can be time-consuming to make. The good news is that this bread can be made ahead of time and stored for later use.
To make ahead, bake the bread and let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the wrapped bread in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw the bread completely before serving.
Reheating is easy and will give your bread a fresh taste once again. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the unwrapped bread on a baking sheet. Warm the bread in the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also warm individual slices in a toaster or microwave.
Keep in mind that Irish Soda Bread can dry out quickly, especially if it’s not properly wrapped or stored. In order to keep your bread moist and tender, avoid exposing it to air as much as possible. Also, don’t slice into your soda bread too soon after baking – give it some time to cool down first! Doing so will help retain moisture within the loaf.
With these tips for making ahead, storing and reheating your Irish Soda Bread with Raisins, you can enjoy this traditional Irish treat anytime you want!
Tips for Perfect Results
Making a traditional Irish soda bread with raisins is not difficult, but it does require a little bit of attention to detail. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you bake your own perfect loaf:
1. Use cold butter: When making the dough, use cold butter to help it mix more evenly.
2. Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can toughen the bread and create large air pockets.
3. Add extra raisins: If you love raisins, feel free to add a little more than the recipe calls for!
4. Cut a cross on top of the bread: This has been known to ward off evil spirits and also allows for even baking.
5. Use fresh baking soda: Be sure to use fresh baking soda to ensure that your bread will rise properly.
6. Bake at high heat: For the best results, bake your bread at 425°F for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
7. Let it cool before slicing: Allow your bread to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing into it so that it holds its shape.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve optimal results for your homemade Irish soda bread with raisins!
FAQ
Now that we have covered every aspect of this fantastic Irish Soda Bread With Raisins Recipe, let’s dive into some Frequently Asked Questions about it. The following section will answer all your queries and shed light on some potential doubts you may have regarding ingredients, substitutions, and techniques applied in making this recipe. So, without further ado, let’s go through the FAQ section to ensure that your baking experience is pleasant from start to finish!
Does Irish soda bread contain raisins?
When people in the US refer to “Irish soda bread,” they usually think of a sweet bread that contains eggs, butter, raisins, and caraway seeds. This bread gets its name from the baking soda, instead of yeast, that is used to make it rise. In Ireland, baking soda is referred to as “bread soda.”
Is there a difference between soda bread and Irish soda bread?
When crafting an original Irish soda bread, it is vital to abstain from certain ingredients that are found in soda breads created in America. The crucial distinguishing factor between the two lies in the exclusion of specific elements. American versions of soda bread employ caraway seeds and raisins during preparation. However, in Ireland, traditional soda bread lacks both of these additions.
What is traditional Irish soda bread made of?
The key components for preparing the classic Irish soda bread include flour, salt, baking soda, and buttermilk. The reaction between the acidic buttermilk and alkaline baking soda is what provides the bread with its leavening, thus marking the bread’s signature name as “soda bread.”
Why is my Irish soda bread so dry?
When making Irish Soda Bread, it’s crucial to be gentle when mixing the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dry and dense bread, which is not what we’re aiming for. Therefore, I suggest adding the wet ingredients to a well in the dry mixture quickly and only mixing until the dough just comes together. Whether you prefer using your hands or a dough hook, be careful not to overmix.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you are looking for a recipe that is easy to make and has a rich history, this Irish Soda Bread with Raisins recipe is perfect for you. By following the simple instructions and incorporating the tips provided, you can create a delicious loaf of bread that will be enjoyed by your family and friends.
Remember to use fresh ingredients, measure precisely, and make any necessary substitutions and variations to cater to your personal taste. Additionally, consider serving this bread with some butter, jam, or alongside soup or stews to experience the full flavor range of this Irish classic.
By mastering this recipe and making it part of your regular cooking repertoire, you will be able to enjoy the sweet smell of homemade bread every time. So put on your apron, dust off the flour, and get ready to bake some traditional Irish soda bread!
Irish Soda Bread With Raisins Recipe
Ingredients
- vegetable oil cooking spray
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons sugar, divided
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 tablespoons butter, chilled, cut into cubes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2/3 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F
- Spray 8-inch-diameter cake pan with nonstick spray.
- Whisk flour, 4 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in large bowl to blend.
- Add butter.
- Using fingertips, rub in until coarse meal forms.
- Make well in center of flour mixture.
- Add buttermilk.
- Gradually stir dry ingredients into milk to blend.
- Mix in raisins.
- Using floured hands, shape dough into ball.
- Transfer to prepared pan and flatten slightly (dough will not come to edges of pan).
- Sprinkle dough with remaining 1 tablespoon sugar.
- Bake bread until brown and tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 40 minutes.
- Cool bread in pan 10 minutes.
- Transfer to rack.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.