Irish Soda Bread

2 c. flour

1 tbsp. sugar

1 1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 c. softened butter

3/4 c. raisins

1 1/2 tsp. caraway seeds (optional)

1 c. buttermilk at room temperature

1 egg, slightly beaten with 1 tbsp. water

All ingredients should be at room temperature.

Have extra flour to knead the bread.

Preheat oven 375 F.

Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; cut in the butter with a pastry blender or two knives, until the mixture resembles coarse meal.

Stir in the raisins and caraway seeds.

Add buttermilk and blend to moisten the dry ingredients.

Turn dough into a floured board and knead for several minutes, until smooth.

Form dough into a round ball and place in a greased baking sheet.

Flatter the dough until it’s about 1 1/2 inches high.

Brush too and sides with egg wash; cut a deep cross on the top of the bread with a sharp knife.

Bake for 40 minutes.

Cool before serving.