Irish Soda Bread

This simple recipe yields a delicious, homemade loaf that's sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you're celebrating with a big Irish feast or just looking for a tasty snack, this bread is sure to hit the spot. So grab your apron and get ready to bake up a storm!

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
• 1 cup raisins (optional)

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. If using raisins, add them to the flour mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
5. Pour the buttermilk into the flour mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for 1-2 minutes until it comes together in a smooth ball.
7. Place the dough on a lightly greased baking sheet and use a sharp knife to score a deep cross into the top of the dough.
8. Bake the bread for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the bread to cool for 10-15 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve the Irish soda bread warm or at room temperature, with a generous spread of butter or your favorite jam.