Irish Soda Bread

Irish Soda Bread


3 1/2 cups unbleached flour (or use 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour plus 1 cup unbleached)
1/2 to 3/4 cup raw or brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 stick butter, softened
1 egg
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
1/2 cup golden raisins or currants
1 teaspoon dried caraway seeds (optional)



Preheat oven to 375F.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda.

Cut the butter into the flour mixture, until crumbly.

Add egg and buttermilk.

Mix until moistened.

Add raisins or currants and caraway seeds if desired.

Form into a round loaf on a greased baking sheet.

Use a knife to cut a spiral or cross on the top.

Bake one hour.