Irish Soda Bread Recipe (Raisins + Buttermilk)

Irish Soda Bread with Raisins

This Irish soda bread is a classic quick bread leavened with baking soda and buttermilk, made extra hearty with seedless raisins. It’s mixed gently (no yeast needed) and baked in a 9×5 loaf pan.

Enjoy it plain or finish it with a simple confectioners’ sugar icing for a sweeter slice.

🍞 Traditional Irish Soda Bread

A comforting, sweet quick bread packed with raisins and the signature tang of buttermilk. This classic loaf is easy to prepare and makes a delightful treat sliced thick with a simple glaze.

⏱️ Bake Time: ~1 Hour 🍽️ Servings: 8–10+ 🍳 Equipment: 9×5" Loaf Pan 🔥 Oven: 350°F

Ingredients

  • 3 cups sifted flour
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 ½ cups seedless raisins
  • 2 eggs, well beaten
  • 1 ¾ to 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 tbsp melted shortening

Preparation Instructions

  1. Prep: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Mix Dry: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the raisins.
  3. Mix Wet: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted shortening.
  4. Combine: Add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and mix just until the flour is moistened.
  5. Bake: Turn the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 1 hour, or until done. Remove from pan immediately and cool completely before slicing.
  6. Optional Glaze: Mix confectioners’ sugar with a small amount of water and ice the cooled bread.

*Tip: You can also divide the batter into two smaller loaves, but be sure to reduce the baking time accordingly.

Irish Soda Bread FAQ

Why do you mix soda bread just until moistened?

Soda bread can turn dense if overmixed. Stir gently so the loaf stays tender.

Can I make two small loaves instead of one?

Yes. You can make two smaller loaves and reduce the baking time.

Do I have to use raisins?

Raisins are traditional in this version, but you can reduce them or omit them if you prefer a plainer loaf.

How do I know when it’s done?

The bread is done when a tester inserted near the center comes out clean (or with a few moist crumbs).

Can I add icing?

Yes. The recipe suggests a simple icing made from confectioners’ sugar mixed with a little water.

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