📝 About This Recipe
Step into the mystical spirit of Samhain with this authentic Irish Barmbrack, a rich, tea-soaked fruit bread that serves as both a delicious treat and a fortune-telling game. Deeply aromatic with warm spices and whiskey-infused vine fruits, this loaf carries the 'hidden charms' that tradition dictates will reveal your fate for the coming year. It is a dense, moist, and deeply comforting bread that bridges the gap between a cake and a yeast loaf, perfect for a cold October evening.
🥗 Ingredients
The Fruit Soak
- 175 g Sultanas (Golden Raisins)
- 175 g Raisins
- 100 g Currants
- 300 ml Strong Black Tea (hot and freshly brewed)
- 50 ml Irish Whiskey (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 50 g Mixed Peel (finely chopped candied citrus)
The Batter
- 450 g Self-Raising Flour (sifted)
- 200 g Light Brown Muscovado Sugar (packed)
- 1 large Egg (beaten)
- 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice or Mixed Spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (extra for warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
The Charms (Wrapped in Parchment)
- 1 piece Ring (signifies marriage)
- 1 piece Coin (signifies wealth)
- 1 piece Thimble (signifies single life)
- 1 piece Piece of Cloth (signifies hard times)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Begin the night before by placing the sultanas, raisins, currants, and mixed peel in a large bowl. Pour the hot black tea and whiskey over the fruit, cover with a cloth, and allow to soak overnight so the fruit plumps up and absorbs the liquid.
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2
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 170°C (325°F/Gas Mark 3). Grease a 900g (2lb) loaf tin and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper.
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3
Prepare your charms by cleaning them thoroughly and wrapping each one individually in a small square of greaseproof parchment paper. This ensures they are hygienic and easy to find without damaging the cake.
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4
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, mixed spice, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the brown sugar, ensuring there are no large lumps.
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5
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the beaten egg. Gradually stir in the fruit mixture, including any remaining liquid that wasn't absorbed.
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6
Mix the batter thoroughly with a wooden spoon until everything is well combined. The consistency should be heavy and wet, but not runny.
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7
Spoon half of the batter into the prepared loaf tin. Strategically place your wrapped charms into the batter, spacing them out so they aren't all in one slice.
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8
Top with the remaining batter and smooth the surface with the back of a spoon.
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9
Place in the center of the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. Test the center with a skewer; if it comes out clean, the brack is done.
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10
For a glossy finish, brush the top of the hot loaf with a tablespoon of honey or a simple sugar syrup immediately after removing it from the oven.
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11
Leave the Barmbrack to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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12
For the best flavor and texture, wrap the cooled loaf in foil and let it sit for 24 hours before slicing. This allows the moisture to distribute evenly.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use a high-quality tea like Barry’s or Lyons for a truly authentic Irish flavor profile. If the top begins to brown too quickly in the oven, cover it loosely with a piece of foil for the last 15 minutes. Don't skip the overnight soak; this is what makes the brack moist without the need for added butter or oil. Ensure your charms are large enough not to be accidentally swallowed, and always warn your guests that there are objects hidden inside! If you don't have self-raising flour, use all-purpose flour and add 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve thick slices toasted and slathered with salted Irish butter. Pair with a hot cup of tea or a glass of cold milk for a traditional snack. A slice of sharp cheddar cheese on the side provides a wonderful savory contrast to the sweet fruit. For an adult treat, serve alongside a glass of Irish whiskey or a creamy coffee liqueur. Any leftovers make incredible French Toast the next morning.