Lucky Irish Soda Bread

irish soda bread with an italian twist

It's Saint Patty’s Day but I can promise you, I’m not making corned beef and cabbage.  As much as I love traditions, my kids don’t like it so after a few years of way too many leftovers, I stopped making the effort.  I do however; make Irish Soda Bread.  It’s a family favorite.

I found the recipe years ago in Baking with Julia, and it’s the traditional recipe. Very simple, four ingredients and an old stand by.  I have added a few twists to it, lemon zest, turbinado sugar and golden raisins, which are not traditional, but that’s what you get when an Italian girl goes Irish.  Scusi!

Irish Soda Bread

Makes 1 large loaf

Serves
Prep time:         Total time: 

4 cups AP flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 ½ teaspoons salt
2 cups buttermilk
zest of one lemon
1 cup golden raisins
3 to 4 tablespoons turbinado sugar for topping

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients (except sugar) and mix with a wooden spoon.  Once incorporated, place on a floured surface and knead a few times to get into a round shape.  Do not overwork the dough or will be very tough.
3. Cut a large cross in the middle of the dough.  Sprinkle top with sugar.
4. Place on a baking sheet and cook for 50 minutes. 
5. Serve with butter, jam and honey.

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Irish Soda Bread, Step By Step.