Irish Barmbrack
Barmbrack, often referred to simply as brack, is a beloved traditional Irish fruitcake. Though originally associated with Halloween festivities, this delightful treat has transcended the seasonal celebration and is now enjoyed throughout the year. Its rich, spiced flavor and moist texture make it perfect for a snack on its own or served with a touch of butter. A time-honored tradition involves inserting objects into the cake, each symbolizing something significant for the person who finds it: a coin predicts good fortune, while a ring indicates an upcoming marriage.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups of chopped dried mixed fruit
- 1 ½ cups of hot black tea
- 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups of sugar
- ¼ cup of lemon marmalade
- 1 teaspoon of grated orange zest
Instructions
- Begin by soaking the chopped dried fruit in hot black tea for a minimum of two hours, though allowing it to steep overnight will enhance the flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a 9x5-inch loaf pan generously to prevent sticking. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking soda, then set the mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat the egg before adding the sugar, marmalade, orange zest, and the tea-soaked dried fruit. Stir until well combined. Gradually fold in the prepared flour mixture until everything is just incorporated, being careful not to overwork the batter. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Bake the batter in the preheated oven for approximately one hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once done, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about two hours before transferring it to a wire rack to reach room temperature.
- If desired, carefully press any objects you have chosen to include into the bottom of the cake before serving. Ensure that the objects are properly cleaned and wrapped in parchment paper for safety.
Notes
For best results, store the barmbrack in an airtight container and allow it to rest for one to two days before serving. The cake’s flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious.