Sweet Irish soda bread

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F / 180°C / Gas mark 4.

Step 2

In a medium mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and sugar. Set aside.

Step 3

Using a pastry blender or food processor cut butter into flour mixture until you have pieces no larger than a pea. Transfer mixture to a large mixing bowl.

Step 4

Add raisins and currants into flour and butter mixture. Toss to coat raisins in flour.

Step 5

Add milk and eggs, mix to combine with a spoon or sturdy rubber spatula. (I don't recommend food processor here).

Step 6

Dough will be sticky. Using floured hands, mold into a round or oblong loaf. (This is a quick bread and is not meant to be kneaded, take care not to overwork the dough.)

Step 7

Place soda bread on baking pan lined with parchment paper in center of oven.

Step 8

Bake for 50 - 60 minutes. Remove from the oven and place on cooling rack.

Step 9

Brush top of soda bread with butter while hot.

Step 10

Let cool completely before cutting.