Irish Soda and Honey Bread

What to do:

1. Wash Up!   

2. Mix the dough: Preheat oven to 350º F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, caraway seeds and raisins. Stir in two tablespoons butter, honey, and just enough buttermilk until the dough is slightly sticky (you may not use all the buttermilk). Do not over-mix.  

3. Shape the dough: Pour the dough onto the prepared baking sheet and shape into a loose ball. Do not overwork. This is a quick bread (like a biscuit) and should not involve too much handling or the dough will become tough. Use a serrated knife and score an X onto the top/center of the dough ball (1/4” deep). Brush dough with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.  

4. Bake the dough: Bake until a deep brown (about 45 minutes). Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing.   

To Serve: Cut and serve warm with honey butter and slice of raw honeycomb.  

Pro Tip: Sub currants for raisins.  

Table Talk: Leprechauns are said to hide their gold at the end of a rainbow. If you found a pot of gold, where would you hide it?