Irish Soda Bread (Bread Machine)

Ingredients

4 cups All-purpose flour (Or substitute part whole wheat for nuttier flavor)

4 Tbsp Sugar

1 tsp Baking soda - Essential for rise

1-1/2 tsp Kosher Salt

1-3/4 cup Buttermilk

1 Egg

4 Tbsp Butter, cold - Cut into small cubes

1 cup Raisins/currants (optional) - Toss with flour before using

Directions

Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease the bread machine pan with butter or oil to prevent any sticking.

Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl (or directly in the bread maker pan if permitted), mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. If you’re using raisins or currants, toss them in one tablespoon of the measured flour to prevent sinking during baking.

Blend the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Keep the butter cold, and cut into small cubes.

Layer the Ingredients: Add the dry mixture to the machine pan. Evenly distribute the cubed butter over the surface. Pour the buttermilk and egg mixture on top.

Add Dried Fruit (if using): Sprinkle coated raisins or currants over the top.

Select the Quick Bread Setting: Choose the “quick bread” or “cake” cycle, not the yeast bread setting.

Monitor and Stir If Needed: Occasionally, pause the machine to scrape down the sides for even mixing, if your machine requires it.

Bake: Allow the machine to mix and bake according to its quick bread cycle (typically 1 to 1.5 hours).

Cool: Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.