Can I use decaffeinated tea?
Yes, you can use decaffeinated black tea, but ensure it is strong to impart enough flavor.
DESSERT
Irish Barmbrack (Fruit Bread) with Spiced Tea Glaze
This traditional Irish barmbrack, a rich fruit bread, is steeped in tea and spices, then finished with a fragrant spiced tea glaze. It's perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or a festive treat.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of cooled strong black tea and 1 1/2 cups of mixed dried fruit. Let the fruit soak for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to plump up.
02
Preheat your oven to 350°F/175°C. Grease and flour a 9x5 inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan.
03
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and mixed spice. Add the beaten egg and the soaked fruit (including any remaining tea liquid) to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
04
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes at 350°F/175°C, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
05
While the barmbrack bakes, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of strong black tea. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly into a syrup. Remove from heat.
06
Once the barmbrack is out of the oven, immediately brush the warm spiced tea glaze generously over the top. Let the barmbrack cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
About This Recipe
This traditional Irish barmbrack, a rich fruit bread, is steeped in tea and spices, then finished with a fragrant spiced tea glaze. It's perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or a festive treat.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For an extra rich flavor, soak the dried fruit in a mixture of tea and a tablespoon of Irish whiskey overnight. Ensure your tea is strong for both soaking and glazing to impart maximum flavor. Do not overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough barmbrack.
Easy Substitutions
If you don't have mixed spice, you can use 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon allspice. Any combination of dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or candied peel can be used instead of the traditional mixed fruit. For a dairy-free version, ensure your tea is brewed without milk.
Storage & Reheating
Store Irish Barmbrack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen, well-wrapped, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Irish Barmbrack warm or at room temperature, spread with a generous layer of butter. It pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve alongside a cheese board with sharp cheddar or blue cheese. It can also be lightly toasted for breakfast.
Common Mistakes
1. Not soaking the fruit long enough: This results in dry, hard fruit in the bread. Always soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results. 2. Overmixing the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough, dense barmbrack. Mix until just combined. 3. Not greasing and flouring the pan properly: This can cause the barmbrack to stick. Ensure the pan is well-prepared. 4. Baking at too high a temperature: This can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Stick to the recommended oven temperature. 5. Skipping the glaze: The spiced tea glaze adds moisture, shine, and an extra layer of flavor that completes the barmbrack.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mixed spice?
Mixed spice is a British blend of sweet spices, typically including cinnamon, coriander, caraway, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. You can substitute with a blend of these if you don't have it.
Can I add nuts to the barmbrack?
Absolutely! A 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans can be added with the dry ingredients for extra texture and flavor.
How do I know if it's cooked through?
Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the barmbrack is ready.
Can I make this gluten-free?
While this recipe uses all-purpose flour, you can experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though results may vary slightly in texture.
MORE TO KNOW
The tradition of barmbrack often includes baking a ring or other small charm into the loaf, which is then used for fortune-telling. While not included in this recipe for safety reasons, it's a fun historical note. The tea soaking process is crucial for a moist and flavorful barmbrack, as it plumps the fruit and infuses the bread with aromatic notes. Using a strong black tea, such as Irish Breakfast tea, will yield the best results.
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