Bread Machine Recipe

(can be made by hand using the same ingredients)

 

1 1/2 cups buttermilk

2 tablespoons butter, softened

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoons sugar

1/3 cup raisins, softened in water

3 1/2 cups bread flour (can use half whole wheat flour)

1 tablespoon gluten (optional)

1 package dry active yeast

 

Combine ingredients in the above order in the bread machine. Select “dough” setting. Push start and remove when the cycle is completed. Remove dough and shape into a round flat form that will fit into a large, greased Dutch oven, cast iron skillet or cake pan. Coat lightly with non-stick baking spray and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Let rise until double in size. Using a sharp, serrated knife, cut a cross in the top of the dough and place another pan or lid on top and bake in a 400 degree oven for 25 min. Remove the pan and reduce the heat to 350 degrees for another 10 min. Watch closely to make sure the top does not get too brown. When the preferred color is achieved, cover with aluminum foil to prevent further browning.

 

Remove bread and put on a rack to cool. Cover loosely with a damp kitchen towel and wait 6 hours to cut it if you can.