"Luck Of The Irish" Bread
A moist, slightly sweet Irish bread infused with raisins and caraway seeds, perfect for celebrating St. Patrick's Day or enjoying with afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, beat all ingredients on medium speed for 3 minutes.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bread, then cover with foil until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter bread, consider sifting the flour before measuring. If you're out of caraway seeds, fennel seeds make a suitable substitute. You can also add nuts or citrus zest for extra flavor. If you prefer a sweeter bread, an additional 1/4 cup of sugar works well. Using buttermilk instead of regular milk can add a nice tangy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful bread warm with a generous spread of butter or try it with Strawberry Butter Spread for a sweet twist. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a cheese platter or as part of a brunch spread, complementing dishes like quiche or fruit salads.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover 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, slice and toast it lightly or warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Luck Of The Irish" Bread contains roughly 2061 calories, with 21g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 194g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (128% of the Daily Value), iron (93% of the Daily Value), and calcium (71% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1001mg per serving (44% 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, but it may result in a denser bread. To maintain moisture, try mixing half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balanced texture.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should also be golden brown. If it browns too quickly, cover it lightly with foil.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts or other fruits?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a wonderful crunch. Dried cranberries or chopped apples can also enhance the flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sugar if your additions are sweet.
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).