Irish Brown Bread

1 . Stage

Preheat oven to 425° and lightly grease a large cast-iron skillet with cooking spray (alternatively, line a large baking sheet with parchment).

2 . Stage

In a large bowl, whisk all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add butter and, using your hands, mix until pea-sized and some slightly larger pieces form.

3 . Stage

In a small bowl, whisk egg and buttermilk. Make a well in center of flour mixture. Add egg mixture to well and, starting from the center, mix with a wooden spoon until dough is too stiff to stir.

4 . Stage

Turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, form dough into a ball as best you can, then knead until no dry streaks remain, about 30 seconds. Don’t overwork or bread will turn out tough.

5 . Stage

Transfer dough to prepared skillet or baking sheet. Using a very sharp knife, score a 1/2"-deep X on top.

6 . Stage

Bake bread 15 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 400°. Continue to bake until bread is golden brown and bottom sounds hollow when tapped, 30 to 35 minutes more.

7 . Stage

Let cool 5 to 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm, at room temperature, or toasted.