Description
This Irish Barmbrack Loaf is a moist, fruit-filled bread traditionally enjoyed with tea. Made with tea-soaked dried fruits, warm spices, and a tender crumb, this classic Irish recipe is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a festive treat. Whether served plain or toasted with butter, this homemade Barmbrack brings a taste of Irish heritage to your table!
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped dried fruit (apricots, raisins, currants, cranberries)
- ½ cup softened butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup very strong hot tea (such as Irish breakfast or English breakfast)
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped dried fruits, softened butter, salt, baking soda, and brown sugar.
- Pour the hot tea over the mixture and stir well.
- Let sit for 15 minutes to allow the fruits to plump up.
2. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, allspice, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Add vanilla extract and eggs to the fruit mixture and stir until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
5. Bake the Loaf:
- Pour batter into the greased loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Serve:
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Slice and serve plain or toasted with butter.
Notes
- Tea-Soaked Fruits: Enhances moisture and flavor. You can substitute hot water or Irish whiskey for a different twist.
- Make It Sweeter: Add a touch of honey or marmalade when serving.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free loaf
