4 1/2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 stick butter, softened
1/2 cup raisins
2 eggs
1 1/2 to 2 cups milk

In a microwavable cup, cover raisins in water and microwave for several minutes or until boiling. Add a pinch of sugar and cinnamon and a little vanilla or rum, if desired. Set aside to soak and cool for at least 15 minutes.

Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and butter by hand until coarse. Add eggs, milk and raisins. Batter should be on the thick side.

Grease a pan and place formed loaf into the pan. Pat the top of the bread with the back of a wooden spoon to smooth (if dipped in water, spoon won't stick to dough).

Bake at 350°F for 40 to 50 minutes. Brush the top with melted butter while still warm from oven.

Cooks Note: Irish Soda Bread is traditionally made using baking soda instead of the baking powder used in this recipe. If you have buttermilk or buttermilk powder on hand, see Irish Soda Bread.