This is a lovely soda bread recipe, studded with raisins. You could just as easily leave the raisins out, if preferred. Delicious warm or room temperature with lots of butter for spreading.
Tried this recipe and enjoyed it very much. I have also been using Grandpa McAndrew's Irish Soda Bread recipe for 2 years and love it. I was brought up on this type of bread both with and without sultanas loved it when my wee Irish mum baked. Rarely buy bread now. - 01 Apr 2015
Hubs doesn't like quick breads of any kind, Mom and I were unsure of the raisins. Didn't look like this bread was going to make any kind of statement at tonight's St. Patrick's Day meal. I had low expectations, frankly. Wrong! Everyone loved it! (me too!) Other than using vegetable oil rather than corn oil, I prepared it as directed, then dusted the loaf with a little flour before it went it into the oven. I find it incredible that something so impressive both in appearance and taste comes together so easily and quickly and with such humble ingredients. It's really a foolproof recipe. I baked it on parchment paper, and in my oven at least, 35 minutes was just right. It's just a beautiful bread that is moist (because of the buttermilk I have no doubt!), tender and flavorful. Don't be tempted to leave out the raisins as I almost did - they really do add something in a positive way! - 17 Mar 2011 (Review from Allrecipes US | Canada)
Grandma McAndrew sure had it right - I just had a slice of this soda bread and its absolutely perfect!!! - 18 Mar 2010 (Review from Allrecipes US | Canada)