Irish Bread(2 Loaves)
A hearty Irish bread with sweet raisins and subtle spice from caraway seeds, perfect for breakfast or tea, offering a moist, flavorful loaf with a tender crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large pan or bowl.
- Knead with hands or mixer on low speed.
- Grease and flour 2 loaf pans.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, then at 325°F for 40 minutes or until baked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. Knead the dough just enough to combine to keep the bread tender. Adding a sprinkle of caraway seeds on top before baking can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Irish bread is delightful served warm with butter and a drizzle of honey. You can also pair it with a hearty soup or stew for a comforting meal. For a sweet twist, enjoy it with jam or alongside a cup of tea. This bread pairs beautifully with Vegetarian recipes, making it a versatile addition to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the loaves in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze the pieces in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast slices in a toaster or warm the whole loaf in a low oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish Bread(2 Loaves) contains roughly 133 calories, with 5g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 940mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Just be aware that this may slightly change the texture and density of the bread. For a gluten-free version, consider using a gluten-free flour blend, but the result may differ in taste and structure.
What can I do if I don't have raisins?
If you don't have raisins, you can substitute them with other dried fruits like cranberries, currants, or chopped dried apricots. Each option will impart a different flavor, adding a unique twist to your Irish bread.
How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is fully baked when it has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done. If you notice the crust is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).