Gluten-Free Traditional Irish Barmbrack

Celebrate the flavors of Ireland with this Gluten-Free Traditional Irish Barmbrack, a delightful fusion of rich, spiced fruitiness and tender, tea-infused bread. This gluten-free twist on a cherished Irish classic uses a blend of dried mixed fruits soaked in strong black tea (and optional whiskey or orange juice) for a moist, flavorful crumb. Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of orange zest add warm, aromatic notes, while gluten-free all-purpose flour and xanthan gum ensure a perfectly soft texture. With just 20 minutes of prep and an hour in the oven, this timeless loaf is as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat. Serve it sliced and slathered with butter for an authentic experience that’s perfect for tea time, holidays, or as a cozy snack.

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 300 grams dried mixed fruit (e.g., raisins, sultanas, currants)
• 300 milliliters strong brewed black tea
• 250 grams gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon xanthan gum
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 100 grams light brown sugar
• 2 pieces large eggs
• 50 grams unsalted butter, melted
• 1 piece zest of an orange
• 2 tablespoons optional whiskey or orange juice

Directions

Step 1

Place the dried mixed fruit in a medium bowl and pour the brewed tea over it. If desired, stir in the optional whiskey or orange juice. Cover and let soak overnight or for at least 6 hours to plump up the fruit.

Step 2

Preheat your oven to 170°C (325°F) and grease and line a loaf tin with parchment paper.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour, xanthan gum, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and light brown sugar. Mix well to distribute evenly.

Step 4

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and orange zest until smooth.

Step 5

Drain the soaked fruit, reserving the excess liquid. Add the drained fruit to the dry ingredients and mix until evenly distributed.

Step 6

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently to combine, adding a few tablespoons of the reserved soaking liquid if the batter feels too dry. The batter should have a thick, drop-batter consistency.

Step 7

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9

Once baked, remove the barmbrack from the oven and let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10

Slice and serve plain, or spread with butter for a traditional Irish treat. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1153.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2866.6

Total Fat 55.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 29.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 481.2mg	0%
Sodium 1138.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 570.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 28.2g	0%
Total Sugars 278.4g
Protein 26.4g	0%

Vitamin D 80IU	0%
Calcium 342.2mg	0%
Iron 8.6mg	0%
Potassium 2661.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 17.3%

Protein: 3.7%

Carbs: 79.0%