Irish Soda Bread

I want to start by saying that my Sister-In-Law's Mom made the best soda bread that I have ever had. Not having that recipe, I left it to the Google Gods to find a winner.

We will not be cutting into the bread until tomorrow, but damn, it sure smells good.

The recipe is from Sip and Feast. This was another simple recipe. I really hope it tastes as good as it looks.

I will report back.

Ingredients-

3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour plus more for bench flour

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1 cup (227g) buttermilk

1 large egg beaten

1 cup (149g) raisins

Method-

Preheat the oven to 400˚f and set a rack to the middle level.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, and mix until combined.

Using your hands or a pastry cutter, add the butter to the flour and mix until the butter disappears.

Add the raisins to the flour mixture and stir until combined.

In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg, then pour the mixture into the flour mixture using a fork to combine.

With floured hands shape the mixture into a large ball, then place the dough onto a floured surface and knead just enough for it to come together in a shaggy dough ball.

Using a sharp knife, cut a large X or cross about 1/2 inch deep into the top of the dough.

Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350˚f and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Transfer to a wire rack to cool and serve with plenty of Irish butter, jam or marmalade. Enjoy!