Irish Soda Bread

This could possibly be the first recipe that I ever made by myself. We learned how to make Irish Soda Bread at Campfire Girls when I was like 9 or 10 yrs old and I still use the same recipe. I have introduced Victor to the joys of Soda Bread and now he too is a fan. Without further adeui...

2 cups flour
2 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoon butter
1 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 cup raisins (optional)

Sift dry ingredients. Cut in the butter with a knife until it resembles crumbs. Add buttermilk. Mix until moistened (work in raisins now if adding them). Turn onto flour cloth. Gently knead for 1 minute. Shape into a ball and then flatten into 7 inch circle, 1 1/2 inch high. Press a cross into the top of the dough with the back of a floured knife. Brush melted butter on top (optional).

Back at 375 degrees for 30-40 minutes until golden.

Enjoy plain, with butter or jam!