Irish Soda Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 425°.
2. 2
   Combine dry ingredients.
3. 3
   Blend 1/2 stick butter and dry ingredients until mixture resembles dry cornmeal.
4. 4
   Beat egg with fork and combine with buttermilk.
5. 5
   If using raisins, add them to dry mixture.
6. 6
   Add 1/2 liquid ingredients to 1/2 dry ingredients.
7. 7
   Stir to combine.
8. 8
   Add remaining 1/2 and stir.
9. 9
   Turn batter into well-floured board and knead briefly until dough is no longer sticky.
10. 10
    Place loaf onto lightly greased baking sheet and with sharp knife, cut across top. Bake 40 minutes or until golden brown.