Bread Machine Irish Soda Bread

Ingredients and Weight:

• All-purpose flour: 3 cups (360g)
• Baking soda: 1 tablespoon (14g)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g)
• Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml)
• Large egg: 1
• Unsalted butter, melted: 1/4 cup (60g)
• Raisins (optional): 1/2 cup (80g)

Preparation Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

45-50 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Add all ingredients to the bread machine pan in the order listed.
2. Select the "dough" cycle and press start.
3. Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough from the pan and shape it into a round loaf.
4. Place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Score the top of the bread with a sharp knife.
6. Allow the bread to rise for 1 hour.
7. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 250 per slice
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g

Dish Characteristics:

• Dense and crumbly texture
• Slightly sour flavor from the buttermilk
• Buttery aroma from the melted butter
• Optional raisins add sweetness and texture

User Comments:

• "The bread was delicious and easy to make. It had a perfect crumb and a great flavor."
• "I loved the tangy buttermilk flavor and the raisins added a nice touch."
• "This is the best Irish soda bread I've ever had. It's so moist and flavorful."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it stand for 10 minutes.
• Do not over-knead the dough, as this will toughen the bread.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
• If the dough is too dry, add a little more buttermilk.
• Score the bread before baking to allow steam to escape and prevent it from cracking.