Traditional Irish Barmbrack
User Reviews
4.7
Traditional Irish Barmbrack
Description
This Traditional Irish Barmbrack recipe begins by soaking a mix of raisins, sultanas, lemon, and orange zest in hot black tea and sugar overnight to hydrate the fruit and infuse flavor. The next day, flour, baking powder, and mixed spice are combined, then alternately mixed with the soaked fruit mixture and eggs to create a thick batter. Baking in a springform pan results in a golden, firm bread with a softly spiced crumb and bursts of fruity sweetness throughout.
Barmbrack is traditionally sliced and served with butter and makes a comforting treat with tea. It is commonly associated with Irish culture and festive occasions. The recipe suggests storing the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for several days.
The note explains how to substitute mixed spice by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger to replicate the warm spiced flavor that characterizes barmbrack.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups raisins
- 1 3/4 cups sultanas
- 1 lemon zest; large
- 1 orange zest; large
- 1 cups dark brown sugar
- 2 cups black tea breakfast type; hot and strong; 16 fl oz (500 ml
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour 15oz/426g
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon mixed spice see notes, or pumpkin pie spice
- 2 egg beaten
Notes
- Mix together ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger to substitute for mixed spice blend.
- Soaking the dried fruit overnight in strong black tea and sugar adds moisture and flavor depth to the bread.
- Store the baked Barmbrack in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh for several days.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.7
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