Sweet Irish Soda Bread

By srumbel

A sweet and simple quick bread loaded with raisins - the perfect way to celebrate St. Patty's Day, or any day!
from mostlyhomemademom.com

Ingredients

• 2 cups raisins
• 3 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 teaspoons baking powder*
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 eggs, slightly beaten

Preparation

Step 1

Fill a saucepan half way with water and bring to a boil. Add raisins and continue boiling for 3 minutes. Drain and lightly dust with flour. Meanwhile, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers, it will be very lumpy. Stir in milk and eggs until fully moistened. Carefully stir in raisins. Spread into a loaf pan coated with non-stick spray and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely before serving. *Baking powder contains baking soda, hence the name "soda bread."