Pam'S Irish Bread
A hearty Irish bread featuring raisins and a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or teatime, with a touch of sweetness and comforting homemade appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Stir in the raisins.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool slightly before removing from the pan and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white for a deeper sweetness. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For a twist, try adding chopped nuts or spices like cinnamon. Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing, and don't overmix the batter to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
This Irish bread is delightful when served warm with a pat of butter. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast or snack. Consider serving it alongside a cheese platter featuring Roquefort Cheese Balls for a savory contrast. It also complements sweet dishes like Curried Baked Fruit, making it versatile for various occasions.
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, simply slice and toast it lightly or warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pam'S Irish Bread contains roughly 526 calories, with 9g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1635mg per serving (71% 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 texture. If you want to keep it light, consider using half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour. This will add some nutritional value while maintaining a good rise.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you don't have raisins on hand, you can use dried cranberries, currants, or even chopped dried apricots. Each will impart a different flavor, so choose based on your preference. For a unique twist, try mixing in a combination of dried fruits.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if your bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the bread is ready. Additionally, the bread should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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).