Traditional NYC Irish Soda Bread
Experience the authentic taste of Irish Soda Bread with a New York twist! This traditional bread is easy to make and perfect for a cozy tea time or as an accompaniment to your favorite soups. Each slice is beautifully crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, enriched with sweet raisins that provide a lovely contrast to the hearty bread. Designed to yield one 6-inch loaf, this recipe is ideal for sharing or enjoying with family. Whether you celebrate St. Patrick's Day or simply crave something homemade, this Irish Soda Bread will not disappoint.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
all-purpose flour
2 cups (sifted)
baking powder
1 teaspoon (none)
baking soda
1/2 teaspoon (none)
brown sugar
2 tablespoons (packed)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
butter
3 tablespoons (softened)
beaten egg
2 medium (one for dough and one for brushing)
buttermilk
3/4 cup (none)
raisins
1/2 cup (plumped in warm water, if desired)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, brown sugar, and salt, mixing well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
3
Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring there are no large lumps of butter remaining.
4
In a separate bowl, mix together the beaten egg, raisins, and buttermilk until well combined.
5
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
6
Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough gently for about 12 strokes, just until it comes together.
7
Shape the dough into a round loaf approximately 6 inches in diameter. Place it on the greased baking sheet.
8
Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross (approximately 4 inches wide and ¼ inch deep) into the top of the loaf. This helps the bread to rise while baking and gives it a traditional appearance.
9
Brush the top of the loaf with the remaining beaten egg for a gorgeous golden crust.
10
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let cool slightly before slicing.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Traditional NYC Irish Soda Bread?
It is a classic quick bread featuring a crusty exterior and soft interior, enriched with raisins and brown sugar for a signature New York style twist.
How long does it take to bake this soda bread?
The bread should be baked in a preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes until it is golden brown.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
What type of flour is best for this recipe?
This recipe calls for 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour.
Does the butter need to be cold?
No, this specific recipe recommends using 3 tablespoons of softened butter.
Why do I need to cut a cross into the top of the dough?
Cutting a deep cross helps the bread rise properly during baking and provides its traditional appearance.
How many eggs are required?
You will need 2 medium eggs: one to mix into the dough and one for brushing the top.
What is the purpose of buttermilk in soda bread?
Buttermilk reacts with the baking soda to help the bread rise and provides a tender crumb.
Can I substitute the raisins?
Yes, while raisins are traditional for this NYC version, you can omit them or replace them with currants if preferred.
How much brown sugar is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of packed brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
How many strokes should I knead the dough?
You should knead the dough gently for about 12 strokes, just until it comes together.
What should the dough consistency be?
The dough should be slightly sticky before kneading.
How large is the finished loaf?
This recipe is designed to yield one round loaf approximately 6 inches in diameter.
Should I grease the baking sheet?
Yes, ensure you grease the baking sheet before placing the dough on it to prevent sticking.
How do I know when the bread is finished baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
What is the best way to prepare the raisins?
You can plump the raisins in warm water before adding them to the dough for extra moisture.
Why is the egg wash important?
Brushing the top with a beaten egg creates a gorgeous, shiny golden crust.
Does this recipe use baking powder or baking soda?
It uses both: 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda.
How deep should the cross on top be?
The cross should be approximately 4 inches wide and 1/4 inch deep.
Can I overmix the dough?
No, you should stir only until just combined to avoid making the bread too tough.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 9 primary ingredients used in this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for St. Patrick's Day?
Yes, it is a perfect traditional choice for St. Patrick's Day celebrations.
How should I incorporate the butter?
Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
Can I serve this with soup?
Absolutely, it is an excellent accompaniment to hearty soups or enjoyed with tea.
How much salt is included?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Should I sift the flour?
Yes, the ingredients list specifies that the all-purpose flour should be sifted.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, though it is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored and toasted later.
What category does this recipe fall under?
It is categorized as a traditional Irish baking recipe, specifically a soda bread.
Is this a difficult recipe for beginners?
No, it is described as an easy recipe that is perfect for home bakers.
How long should I let it cool?
You should let the loaf cool slightly after baking before you begin slicing.