2 c. all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tbsp. sugar
6 tbsp. butter
2/3 c. buttermilk
1/2-1 c. raisins (optional)
1 tbsp. caraway seed (optional)

Sift together flour, baking soda, salt, sugar into large bowl. Rub in butter until well dispersed through flour. Make a well; pour in all buttermilk at once. If using raisins and caraway seed add before buttermilk. Mixture will be like thick oatmeal. Mixture should not be dry.

Knead into a round loaf or a 9x5-inch pan. Put dough in a greased pan. Cut a cross on top, going over the sides so bread will not crack. When baking, brush top with milk. Bake at 450 degrees for 10 minutes, 400 degrees for 40 minutes. Should be well-risen, golden brown and firm to touch. Cool before removing.