Irish Caraway Raisin Bread
Irish Caraway Raisin Bread offers a hearty, slightly sweet flavor with aromatic caraway seeds and plump raisins, perfect for breakfast, tea time, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- Add softened butter and crumble with fingertips or a blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Beat the egg separately; then add sour cream and milk at room temperature, mixing well.
- Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Add floured raisins and caraway seeds to the batter.
- Mix gently until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured loaf pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure you sift your flour thoroughly before measuring. If you don't have sour cream, plain yogurt can be a great substitute, adding similar tanginess. Caraway seeds can be replaced with fennel seeds for an alternative flavor. To enhance sweetness, consider adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg. This bread is also delightful when toasted, similar to how one would enjoy Old German Pie.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is delicious on its own or served with a dollop of butter or cream cheese. For a heartier meal, pair it with a bowl of soup such as Potato Leek Soup or a fresh salad. It also makes a lovely accompaniment to a cheese platter, especially alongside Wine Cheese Rolls. Serve with a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Irish Caraway Raisin Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw and place slices in a toaster for a few minutes or warm in a preheated oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish Caraway Raisin Bread contains roughly 369 calories, with 8g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1787mg per serving (78% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser bread. If using whole wheat, consider adding a bit more liquid, like milk or water, to maintain moisture. This will help achieve a lighter texture while still enjoying the health benefits of whole grains.
What if I don't have raisins?
If you don't have raisins, dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots work well as alternatives, providing a similar sweet and chewy texture. You could also use a mix of dried fruits for added flavor. Just remember to flour them lightly before adding to the batter to prevent them from sinking.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready. Additionally, the top should be golden brown and the bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If it's not done, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
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).