Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl - flour, sugar, baking soda and salt.

Place raisins in a bowl and add about 2 teaspoons flour mixture, coat raisins (this will help them from settling on the bottom)

Using a pastry blender or mixer, cut in cold butter

In a small bowl, combine buttermilk and egg, beat lightly with a fork. Add liquid ingredients to dry ingredients.

Fold raisins into mixture

On a heavily floured surface, knead dough. Work with about half of the dough, it's easier that way. You want to add enough flour so it's not sticky, but not too much flour

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line dutch oven with parchment paper or spray with non-stick cooking spray. You can also use a cast iron skillet, baking dish or cookie sheet.

Form dough into a ball, and place in a pan. Using a sharp knife, make an X on the top of the bread.

Bake for about 45-60 minutes depending on the size of your loaf.

Store in airtight container