Irish Soda Bread

Preparation Notes

Cut butter into small pieces and chill before starting. You can substitute other dried fruit for raisins in this recipe.

Directions

1. Position oven rack in the middle and preheat to 400°F.

2. Lightly butter a baking sheet.

3. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cake flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

4. Add butter and work it into the flour mixture until it is about the size of small peas.

5. Stir in raisins.

6. Add buttermilk and stir with a spatula until the flour is just moistened.

7. Put dough on a lightly floured surface and knead lightly until just smooth, about one minute.

8. Form the dough into a ball and place in the center of the prepared baking sheet.

9. Using a sharp knife, cut a 1/4 inch deep "X" into the top of the dough.

10. Bake until well browned and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped with your knuckles, about one hour.

11. Let cool completely before serving.

Nutrition