Irish Soda Bread

Preheat the oven to 375°F/190°C, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Alternatively, you can bake this in a cast iron pan.

Make the Dough: In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or in a large bowl), combine flour with sugar, baking powder and soda, salt, and butter. Mix until the butter pieces are pea-sized.

Combine buttermilk with egg, and stir that in until a shaggy dough forms. Stir in the raisins and do not overmix the dough.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and lightly knead to shape it into a tall ball about 7 inches in diameter. You may want to add more flour if the dough is sticky.

Transfer the ball to a baking sheet, then score the dough ball with a sharp knife to create a cross or X in the center. The cuts should be about ¾ inch deep and 3 to 4 inches long.

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until it’s golden brown and done. When you tap, you should hear a hollow sound and that’s how you know that the bread is done.

Allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.