Irish soda bread is a wonderful traditional Irish quick bread with currants, caraway seeds and honey. Here is a simple make ahead mix recipe that is wonderful for gift giving or to whip up an Irish soda bread in just a few moments time.

Ingredients:

3 1/2 c. all-purpose flour

1/2 c. whole-wheat flour

1 c. dried currants or raisins

1/2 c. light-brown sugar

1 T. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

2 tsp caraway seeds (optional)

Measure all ingredients into a large ziploc bag, seal & shake well. (This makes 1 package of Irish Soda Bread Mix)

Irish Soda Bread Mix

1 package Irish Soda Bread Mix (as listed above)

1/2 c. butter softened

1 egg

1 c. buttermilk

Instructions:

Cut the butter into the bread mix working it in with your fingers or a mixer until it resembles cornmeal.

In a small bowl beat egg & buttermilk together and pour into the mix. Stir just enough to moisten evenly, but don’t over mix or your bread will be tough.

Shape into a high round ball and place on a buttered cookie sheet. Make a criss-cross slash across the top Bake at 350F for 45-55 minutes.

Cool before slicing.

Recipe Submitted by Erin