Irish Barmbrack Recipe

If you’re looking to bring a touch of Irish charm into your kitchen, this Irish Barmbrack Recipe is just what you need. This traditional fruit-studded tea bread, soaked in strong tea and a splash of Irish whisky, is a cozy treat that sings with warmth and festive flavor. It boasts a moist, tender crumb dotted with juicy raisins, sultanas, and cherries that transport you straight to a quaint Irish kitchen. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared during special occasions, this recipe captures the soul of Irish baking in every bite and is sure to become one of your go-to comfort foods.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Irish Barmbrack Recipe lies in its simplicity. With a handful of everyday ingredients, each plays a vital role in building the bread’s unique flavor, texture, and lovely deep hue. From the plump, soaked fruits lending sweetness and chew to the warm hint of mixed spice, every component works in harmony.

• 250g raisins: These bring natural sweetness and a pleasing, chewy burst with every bite.
• 225g sultanas or currants: Adding a slightly lighter, tangy contrast to the raisins.
• 25g glace cherries, rinsed and quartered: For a colorful pop and subtle tartness throughout the bread.
• 300ml strong, cold tea: The base that soaks the fruits to infuse deep flavor and moisture.
• 50ml Irish whisky: Enhances flavor depth and gives a gentle warmth—feel free to swap for another liquor if you prefer.
• 1 medium egg, beaten: Binds the mixture together and adds richness.
• 200g caster or soft light brown sugar: Sweetness with a hint of molasses complexity.
• 220g self-raising flour: Provides structure and a soft, tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon ground mixed spice: A warming blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to elevate the cake’s aroma.
• 1 tablespoon orange marmalade (optional): For brushing on top to add a glossy finish and citrus brightness.

How to Make Irish Barmbrack Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Fruits

The key to a beautifully moist Irish Barmbrack is giving the fruits plenty of time to absorb flavor. Combine the raisins, sultanas or currants, and glace cherries with the strong, cold tea and Irish whisky, then leave them to soak overnight. This soak ensures the dried fruits plump up and become bursting with infused taste that’ll make every slice a little celebration.

Step 2: Prepare Your Oven and Tin

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F/gas mark 4. Grease a 900g (2lb) loaf tin generously and line it with parchment paper. I love a good 5×8 inch tin for this recipe—it gives the barmbrack the perfect height and shape for even baking and that inviting, homemade look.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

Next, stir the beaten egg and sugar into the fruit mixture until combined. Gradually fold in the self-raising flour and ground mixed spice, mixing gently until you have a smooth batter without any flour pockets. This simple step creates a rich, tender batter that will rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Bake the Barmbrack

Pour your mixture into the prepared tin, smoothing the top slightly. Bake for around 80-90 minutes, keeping an eye on the color. If the top darkens too quickly, cover it lightly with a piece of baking parchment to prevent burning. You’ll know it’s done when the cake springs back slightly when pressed and a skewer poked into the center comes out clean. Patience here is rewarded with a perfectly cooked, moist loaf.

Step 5: Cool and Finish

Once out of the oven, let the barmbrack cool completely in the tin on a wire rack. While it’s still warm, brush the top with orange marmalade if you like a subtle shine and a hint of citrus sweetness. Allow it to cool fully before slicing to preserve that perfect texture and flavor balance.

How to Serve Irish Barmbrack Recipe

Garnishes

This fruit bread is lovely on its own but even better when garnished with a dollop of creamy butter or a slather of smooth cream cheese. Sprinkle with a little cinnamon or dust with icing sugar for a pretty finish that invites a second slice.

Side Dishes

Irish Barmbrack pairs wonderfully with a hot cuppa—be it black tea or coffee. On cooler days, it’s delightful alongside a steaming bowl of spiced apple or pear compote. For brunch, serve it with fresh fruit or a wedge of sharp cheddar to add a wonderful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not get playful with serving? Cut into thick slices and lightly toast them for a warm, crunchy spin. You can also slice it thin and use the pieces to make mini open-faced sandwiches topped with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a sophisticated twist. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine makes a charming gift packed with love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Irish Barmbrack stays moist and flavorful for days. Store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature, or wrap tightly in cling film to keep it fresh. It’s perfect for enjoying the following day with minimal effort—and who says you can’t have a slice or two for breakfast?

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the whole loaf or individual slices tightly in cling film followed by foil, then pop it in the freezer. This way, you can preserve that fresh-baked goodness for up to three months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge or gently at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy frozen barmbrack, warm slices in a toaster or oven at a low temperature until just heated through. This quick reheat revives the soft crumb and intensifies the lovely fruit flavors, making each bite taste freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I make Irish Barmbrack Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use Irish whisky, you can skip it or substitute with fruit juice or strong brewed tea. The soaking process still gives the fruit plenty of moisture and flavor without the alcohol.

What’s the best tea to use for soaking fruits?

A strong black tea, like Irish Breakfast or Assam, works perfectly. It gives the bread its characteristic dark color and a subtle depth of flavor that complements the dried fruit beautifully.

Can I add other dried fruits or nuts?

Definitely. Feel free to experiment with chopped dried apricots, dates, or even toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds. Just remember to keep the total fruit quantity roughly the same to maintain the texture.

How long does Irish Barmbrack last?

When stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, it will keep well for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freezing as described ensures it stays delicious for months.

Is Irish Barmbrack a yeast bread?

No, it’s more of a quick bread made with self-raising flour, so it doesn’t require kneading or rising time. The baking powder in the flour helps it rise and gives it a lovely tender crumb.

Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply comforting about baking and enjoying a slice of this Irish Barmbrack Recipe. The blend of tea-soaked fruit, warm spices, and a touch of whisky creates a delicious, nostalgic treat that’s perfect year-round. Whether it’s a quiet afternoon snack or a centerpiece for festive gatherings, this traditional bread makes the heart a little happier with each bite. I truly encourage you to give it a whirl—you might just find it becoming a beloved staple in your kitchen too.

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