Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. Place ¼ cup of the butter in a small bowl and melt it in the microwave; set aside to cool while you mix the bread batter.

In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt and remaining ½ cup butter until the mixture resembles damp sand. Add in 1 ¼ cups milk, egg, and raisins (if using), stirring until combined. 

Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead lightly, forming it into a round ball. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Add the remaining milk to the bowl the cooled melted butter and whisk well, then brush the loaf with the mixture. Sprinkle on a bit of sugar, then use a sharp knife to cut an 'X' into the top of the loaf.

Bake for 45-50 minutes, brushing the loaf 2-3 times with the milk mixture and sprinkling it with a bit more sugar during the baking time. The bread is done when a knife blade is inserted into the center of the loaf and comes out clean.

Allow the bread to cool for 5-10 minutes, then slice and serve.