The Best Irish Soda Bread

Preheat the oven to its highest temperature setting, which is 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Cover a baking sheet with a layer of cornmeal or spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent the mixture from sticking.

In a large mixing vessel, merge 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt in a harmonious blend. Use your hands or a pastry blender to break down the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles a coarse, uneven texture.

Combine buttermilk with the flour mixture using a fork until the dough is evenly distributed; gently knead the dough 5 times in the bowl. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it using your hands 8-10 times; shape the dough into a loaf with dimensions between 6 and 8 inches.

Position the loaf on the prepared baking sheet, sprinkling a small amount of flour over it to prevent sticking. Using a serrated knife, create a deep diagonal cut across the top of the loaf.

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until it has turned golden brown and produces a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom; check for doneness by inserting a thermometer into the center of the loaf, which should read 190 degrees F (88 degrees C).