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Cozy Irish Soda Bread Recipe with Raisins and Caraway Seeds

Irish soda bread - featured image

A quick and easy Irish soda bread with sweet raisins and subtle caraway seeds, perfect for cozy occasions and comforting meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons caraway seeds
  • 3/4 cup (110g) raisins
  • 1 3/4 cups (420ml) buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and position a rack in the middle. If using a cast-iron skillet, place it in the oven to heat slightly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, sugar, and caraway seeds. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
  3. Stir in the raisins, tossing them with the dry mixture to prevent clumping or sinking.
  4. Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk and melted butter. Gently mix with a wooden spoon or hands until just combined; the dough will be sticky and shaggy.
  5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and lightly knead 3-4 times to bring it together, keeping it rustic and loose.
  6. Shape the dough into an 8-inch (20 cm) round loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or the preheated cast-iron skillet.
  7. Score the top with a sharp knife, cutting a deep cross about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) deep.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the crust is golden brown and firm. Tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow.
  9. Cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Do not overmix the dough to avoid toughness. Use fresh baking soda for proper rise. Score the dough deeply to help it expand evenly. Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture. Soak raisins in warm water or tea for 10 minutes if they look dry before baking. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, follow substitutions suggested in the recipe.

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish soda bread, soda bread with raisins, caraway seeds bread, quick bread, easy bread recipe, no yeast bread, cozy bread