Nana's Irish Soda Bread with Whiskey Soaked Raisins

Infused with tradition and a touch of indulgence, Nana's Irish Soda Bread with Whiskey Soaked Raisins is a delectable twist on a beloved classic. This rustic bread combines the signature tang of buttermilk with the sweetness of plump raisins soaked in rich Irish whiskey, imparting subtle warmth and complexity to every bite. A hint of caraway seeds adds an optional aromatic note, while the buttery, golden crust balances the tender, hearty interior. Perfect for St. Patrick's Day or any cozy gathering, this soda bread is incredibly easy to make—no yeast required! Scored with a traditional cross and baked to perfection, it’s delightful served warm with butter or a smear of jam. Whether you're honoring Irish heritage or simply craving something comforting, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 1 cup Raisins
• 0.5 cup Irish whiskey
• 4 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1.75 cups Buttermilk
• 1 large Egg
• 1 tablespoon Caraway seeds (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Place the raisins in a small bowl and pour the whiskey over them. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor infusion. Drain before using, reserving the whiskey for another use if desired.

Step 2

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch round baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking soda.

Step 4

Add the chilled, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 5

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and the egg until well combined.

Step 6

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough should be shaggy and slightly sticky.

Step 7

Fold in the drained whiskey-soaked raisins and optional caraway seeds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 8

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Shape it into a round loaf and transfer it to the prepared baking pan.

Step 9

Using a sharp knife, cut a deep cross into the top of the dough. This traditional scoring helps the bread bake evenly.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 11

Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 12

Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with butter or a dollop of jam!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1415.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3671.8

Total Fat 74.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 40.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.9g
Cholesterol 390.5mg	0%
Sodium 4234.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 617.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 22.5g	0%
Total Sugars 226.4g
Protein 76.8g	0%

Vitamin D 275.8IU	0%
Calcium 734.6mg	0%
Iron 27.2mg	0%
Potassium 2445.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 19.3%

Protein: 8.9%

Carbs: 71.7%