Every year, we make this around St Paddy's Day! It doesn't disappoint!

Irish Soda Bread is a classic, wholesome bread that's as comforting as a hug from an old friend. Hailing from Ireland, it traditionally graces the table during St. Patrick's Day, but let's be honest, it deserves to be enjoyed all year round. This simple bread, leavened with baking soda instead of yeast, is the perfect introduction to bread making for those who might be intimidated by the thought of working with yeast. Plus, it fills your home with the most heavenly aroma! Making it in a slow cooker gives this bread a delightfully tender crumb and a crust that's just the right kind of chewy. Whether you're of Irish heritage or simply a fan of hearty, homemade breads, this Slow Cooker Irish Soda Bread will warm your soul and your kitchen.

Irish Soda Bread pairs beautifully with a variety of spreads, from sweet honey butter to tangy marmalade, or even a rich, creamy slice of aged cheddar. It's the perfect companion to your favorite soup or stew, especially if you find yourself with a hankering for something to sop up all that goodness. And if by some miracle there are leftovers, it makes a delectable breakfast, toasted and topped with a soft pat of butter that just melts into all of those nooks and crannies.

Servings:

Makes one round loaf, about 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 and 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup melted butter, divided

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Create a well in the center of your flour mixture.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the beaten egg with buttermilk, and then pour into the well of the dry ingredients.

3. Gently mix with a spoon or your hands just until the dough comes together. Be tender with it; over-mixing can lead to a tough bread.

4. Sprinkle flour on a clean work surface, turn out the dough, and gently knead it into a round shape. Remember, this bread is a rustic, no-fuss affair, so perfection isn't the goal here.

5. Line the bottom of your slow cooker with parchment paper and place your dough on top. Brush the top of the bread with half of the melted butter.

6. Cover and cook on high for 2 to 2.5 hours until the bread is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Carefully remove the bread from the slow cooker and brush with the remaining melted butter. For a crisper crust, pop it under the broiler for a few minutes, but keep a hawk's eye on it to prevent it from burning.

8. Let it cool slightly before slicing. This is the hardest part—I know, the aroma is tempting, but a little patience will go a long way.

Variations & Tips:

- For a nuttier flavor, substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Toss in a handful of raisins or dried currants if you fancy a little sweetness, or a teaspoon of caraway seeds for an earthy touch.
- The parchment paper is not just for ease of cleaning; it helps prevent the bottom from getting too crusty.
- And here's the thing about soda bread: you want to eat it fresh. It's not a bread that stores particularly well, so gather your loved ones and dig in while it's at its best. If you do end up with leftovers, toast them up to revive that freshly-baked taste.

Whatever your day looks like, I hope this Slow Cooker Irish Soda Bread adds a touch of cozy, homemade joy to your table. Enjoy the heartwarming process of creating something from scratch, and the pleasure of sharing it with those you love.