Irish Soda Bread

I typically make this for our Imbolg rite (or for St. Pat's)

     Cook at 375 for 50 minutes

4 c all-purpose flour

4 Tbs white sugar

1 tsp baking soda

1 Tbs baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup butter softened

1 c butter milk (I used regular milk)

1 egg

Optional

For the topping/wash 

1/4 c butter melted

1/4 C buttermilk

Lightly grease a cookie sheet

In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and butter. Stir in 1 cup of buttermilk and egg. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead slightly. Form dough into a round and place on a prepared baking sheet. (Topping) In a small bowl, combine melted butter with 1/4 c buttermilk; brush loaf with this mixture. Use a sharp knife to cut an x into the top of the loaf.

*So when I made this I halved the recipe, and it made a nice little chunk of bread perfect size for ritual. I didn't take it out and knead it, I just did that in the bowl. This batter/dough was much more "breadie" (or dry) than the recipe I've used in the past. I didn't use the topping/wash, I just brushed some butter on the top of the dough. It didn't really brown, it just kind of stayed a uniform white color, but it seemed to cook just fine, and was tasty! I didn't have any raisins or currants, and I threw in a dash of whisky, because why not!