Classic Irish Soda Bread

Directions

• Place oven rack in center of oven and preheat to 400ºF.
• In a large bowl combine the flours, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Stir well to combine all.
• Cut the butter into pieces and add to the flour mixture – crumbling by hand till well incorporated.
• Add the raisins.
• In a small bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg together and add to the flour/butter mixture with a rubber or wood spatula.
• Turn the dough onto a floured work surface and fold it over onto itself several times shaping into a round loaf.
• Transfer the loaf to a cookie sheet lined with parchment and cut a large cross onto the top of the loaf.
• Bake for the first 15 minutes at 400ºF, reduce to 350ºF and bake another 15-20 minutes until lightly browned. Toothpick should emerge clean when inserted into the center.
• Cool the soda bread on a rack then enjoy with sweet butter and bitter orange marmalade.