Irish Sweet Bread
A rich, slightly sweet Irish bread packed with raisins and vanilla, perfect for breakfast or tea time, offering comforting flavors and a moist texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients together.
- Add eggs, oil, vanilla, and buttermilk to the dry mixture.
- Spoon the batter into two well-greased and floured loaf pans.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can substitute half the oil with melted butter. If you prefer a sweeter bread, consider adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. Soaking the raisins in warm water or rum for about 30 minutes before adding can enhance their flavor and texture. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise.
Serving Suggestions
Irish Sweet Bread is delightful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a dollop of butter or a spread of cream cheese. Serve it alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or as a snack. This bread also complements savory dishes like Moms German Potato Salad, creating a wonderful balance of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
After baking, allow the bread to cool completely. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish Sweet Bread contains roughly 538 calories, with 8g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 513mg per serving (22% 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 the texture may be denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a lighter result while still adding nutritional value. Adjust the liquid if necessary, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
What can I add to the bread for extra flavor?
You can enhance the bread's flavor by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can add crunch. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots also work well. Just ensure that if you add more than the recipe calls for, you adjust the flour slightly to maintain the batter consistency.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick or skewer into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. Additionally, the bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If it’s browning too quickly, cover the top with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
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).