Irish Soda Bread

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit

2. 2

   In a large bowl, combine the first 5 ingredients with a pastry blender or two knives (or in a food processor)

3. 3

   Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs

4. 4

   with a spoon, stir in raisins and buttermilk, just until evenly moistened

5. 5

   With floured hand, shape dough into a ball, kneading a little.

6. 6

   **do not overmix or bread will be tough**

7. 7

   Place dough on a cookie sheet, shape into a round loaf. Dough will not be smooth.

8. 8

   Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 tsp of flour over the dough. With a sharp knife, cut a 4 inch cross, 1/4 inch deep into the top of the loaf.

9. 9

   Bake loaf for 1 hour, or until a tooth-pic comes out clean,

No additional tips available.