Traditional Irish Barmbrack

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Ireland with this delightful *Traditional Irish Barmbrack*, a dense and flavorful fruit loaf that’s perfect for cozy afternoons. This classic recipe combines plump mixed dried fruits steeped overnight in robust black tea, giving the bread its signature moist texture and aromatic sweetness. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg and a touch of whiskey or orange juice, this loaf is a celebration of hearty, old-world baking. True to its roots, you can even hide a token like a ring or coin in the batter for a festive surprise! Easy to prepare and perfect with a slather of butter, Barmbrack is a beloved treat for Halloween or any time you crave a slice of Irish heritage. Perfect your tea-time spread by serving this versatile loaf alongside your favorite cup of tea.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 300 ml strong black tea
• 250 grams mixed dried fruit (sultanas, raisins, currants)
• 75 grams brown sugar
• 225 grams all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 large egg
• 50 ml whiskey or orange juice
• 1 ring or coin (optional, for tradition)

Directions

Step 1

Brew 300 ml of strong black tea and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed dried fruit and brown sugar. Pour the warm tea over the mixture, stir to combine, cover the bowl and let soak overnight (or at least 4 hours).

Step 3

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan oven.

Step 4

Prepare a 9-inch round cake tin by greasing it and lining with parchment paper.

Step 5

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

Step 6

In the soaked fruit mixture, add the beaten egg and the whiskey or orange juice, and mix well.

Step 7

Gradually fold the flour mixture into the fruit mixture, combining thoroughly until you have a thick, smooth batter.

Step 8

If you wish to include a traditional ring or coin, wrap it in parchment paper and gently press it into the batter.

Step 9

Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 80 to 90 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 11

Allow the barmbrack to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 12

Once cooled, slice and serve your barmbrack, optionally warmed and spread with butter.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(969.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2150.7

Total Fat 11.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 2.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.0g
Cholesterol 219.5mg	0%
Sodium 622.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 448.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.8g	0%
Total Sugars 221.0g
Protein 37.8g	0%

Vitamin D 53.8IU	0%
Calcium 271.8mg	0%
Iron 18.1mg	0%
Potassium 2401.7mg	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: 5.1%

Protein: 7.4%

Carbs: 87.5%