Batch is a traditional Irish bread, it triggers so many childhood memories for people and is something we bake every day at the bakery. We use buttermilk in our dough as we find that it just gives the bread an added richness. The bread is beautifully soft with a dark crust and just screams comfort. I love everything about this recipe and couldn't be easier to make!
Traditionally this recipe would be baked within a wooden frame. The frame supports the dough, ensuring high sides to the loaf, but the wood was also used to flavour the bread. I also love that in order to make a batch loaf, you can't simply bake just one. You have to bake a batch of them. Each loaf sits side by side, which prevents the crust from forming on the sides, keeping the loaf soft. It's the perfect bread to share. Bake one for yourself and a few more for friends and family.
The recipe couldn't be easier. And don't worry if you don't have a wooden frame in which to bake your bread it can be made without, or if you have a square baking tray that will work perfectly.