Irish Soda Bread

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 4 tablespoons white sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup margarine, softened

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 egg

• 1/4 cup butter, melted

• 1/4 cup buttermilk

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet.

In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and margarine.

Stir in 1 cup of buttermilk and egg.

Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead slightly.

Form dough into a round and place on prepared baking sheet.

In a small bowl, combine melted butter with 1/4 cup buttermilk; brush loaf with this mixture.

Use a sharp knife to cut an 'X' into the top of the loaf.

Bake in preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, about 30 to 50 minutes.

You may continue to brush the loaf with the butter mixture while it bakes.