Irish Raisin Bread
Irish Raisin Bread is a hearty, slightly sweet loaf packed with raisins and flavored with caraway seeds, perfect for breakfast or tea-time indulgence, suitable for all bread lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place vinegar in a 3-cup mixing bowl.
- Add enough milk to make 2 cups in the bowl with vinegar.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Add margarine, caraway seed, and raisins to the dry ingredients.
- Mix together lightly with a fork.
- Add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring with a fork, but do not overmix.
- Put the batter into a greased loaf pan or 8-inch cake pan.
- Pour melted margarine over the top of the batter.
- Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of sugar.
- Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
- Lower the temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 55 to 60 minutes, or until it tests done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of skim. You can substitute buttermilk for the vinegar and milk mixture for added tang. If you don't have caraway seeds, try using fennel seeds or omit them entirely. Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and light. For a sweeter loaf, increase the sugar by a couple of tablespoons.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or at room temperature, sliced and spread with butter or cream cheese. This bread pairs beautifully with Strawberries Elizabeth for a delightful brunch. It can also be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun twist, try it as a base for French toast topped with fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store the leftover Irish Raisin Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice and toast in a toaster or on a skillet, or warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish Raisin Bread contains roughly 306 calories, with 7g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2484mg per serving (108% 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 milk?
Yes, you can use any milk you prefer, such as almond or oat milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly. If using a non-dairy milk, ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the balance of flavors in the bread.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, currants, or chopped dried apricots. Each option will give the bread a different flavor profile while still providing a sweet and chewy texture.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, it needs more time. Additionally, the bread should feel firm to the touch.
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).