Irish Soda Bread

This is delicious served warm, spread with butter and jam, or cooled.

3 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup raisins (optional)
3/4 cup buttermilk

Cut butter into flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Stir in raisins and enough buttermilk to make a soft dough. Turn onto lightly floured surface; knead until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes.

Shape into round loaf, about 6 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on greased cookie sheet. Cut an X about 1/4 through center of loaf with floured knife. Bake at 375 degrees F until golden brown, 35 to 45 minutes.

Brush with butter if desired.