Irish Soda Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Grease 2-quart round casserole dish.
2. 2
   In large bowl with fork, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and baking soda.
3. 3
   Using pastry blender, cut in butter.
4. 4
   Stir in raisins.
5. 5
   Preheat oven to 350°.
6. 6
   In small bowl beat eggs slightly with fork.
7. 7
   Remove 1 tablespoon of egg and reserve.
8. 8
   Stir in buttermilk in flour mixture (dough will be sticky).
9. 9
   Turn dough on well floured surface.
10. 10
    Knead dough 10 strokes to mix.
11. 11
    Shape in balls; place in casserole dish.
12. 12
    With sharp knife cut a 4-inch cross abut 1/2 inch deep in center of dough.
13. 13
    Brush with reserved egg.
14. 14
    Bake 60 to 70 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean.
15. 15
    Cool in casserole on wire rack 10 minutes.
16. 16
    Remove from casserole dish.
17. 17
    Cool another 30 minutes, then cut and serve.
18. 18
    Makes 1 loaf.