Barmbrack

Barmbrack – traditional Irish fruit bread
Ireland
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Barmbrack is a traditional Irish fruit bread, often enjoyed during the Halloween season as part of the Samhain festivities. This sweet loaf is imbued with a rich blend of dried fruits and is associated with fortune-telling customs in Ireland. Traditionally served with a cup of tea, it's a beloved treat for gatherings and celebrations.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~250 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (240 ml) hot tea (black tea)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) orange juice
  • 1/2 cup (100g) raisins
  • 1/2 cup (100g) currants
  • 1/4 cup (50g) sultanas
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2g) ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2g) ground allspice
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (50g) chopped nuts (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) candied peel (optional)

Instructions

Soak the Fruit

In a large bowl, combine the hot tea and orange juice. Add the raisins, currants, and sultanas. Stir and let soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible.

Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) round or loaf pan with parchment paper.

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the egg until well combined.

In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground allspice.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the soaked fruit (including any liquid), chopped nuts, and candied peel if using.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the Barmbrack to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and serve as is, or with a spread of butter if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Barmbrack?

Barmbrack is a sweet, yeasted bread filled with dried fruits such as raisins, currants, and sultanas. It's often enjoyed with tea and has cultural significance in Ireland.

Where does Barmbrack come from?

Barmbrack originates from Ireland, where it has been a traditional bread, especially during the Halloween season.

What are the main ingredients in Barmbrack?

The main ingredients include hot tea, orange juice, raisins, currants, sultanas, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and a large egg.

How long does Barmbrack take to make?

Barmbrack takes approximately 125-800 minutes to make, depending on soaking time and baking.

What do you serve with Barmbrack?

Barmbrack is typically served sliced with butter, alongside a cup of tea, or as part of a festive meal.