Irish Soda Bread

Original recipe from the Ruralite Magaizine and Sally's Baking Addiction.

Yield: 1 large loaf

Ingredients

• 4 c flour (can use 1/2 wheat)
• 1 t baking soda
• 1 t salt
• 1/4 c sugar
• ½ c butter
• 1 c raisins or golden raisins 
• 1 ½ c buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1 T sparkling sugar, optional

Directions 

1. Preheat oven to 375°.
2. In a large bowl, combine 2 c flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add remaining flour.
3. In a small measuring bowl, whisk butter milk and egg. Stir/knead in buttermilk just until combined. Fold raisins inside dough, covering them completely so none show on the outer edge.
4. Place in a buttered cast iron skillet or baking sheet; pat into a 7-in. round loaf (shouldn't be taller than skillet sides). Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross into top of the loaf. Sprinkle sparkling sugar over top, pressing into dough. Cover with a lid or foil.
5. Bake 20 minutes, then uncover and bake 25 min more, or until thermeter inserted in the center reads 195° F. Cool 10 min on a wire rack before cutting. Makes a great breakfast with a green smoothie!