Breakfast

Irish Breakfast Barmbrack

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Irish Breakfast Barmbrack
Golden slices of Barmbrack served with butter and a cup of Irish tea.

Barmbrack is a delightful slice of Irish tradition that can turn your morning into an enchanting experience. This spiced fruit cake has been enjoyed in Ireland for centuries and often features hidden charms to predict fortune. Perfectly moist and rich with spices, each bite evokes the charm of old-world kitchens and cozy gatherings.

“Barmbrack: A sweet slice of Irish tradition to start your day.”

Highlights

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Servings: 12 slices
  • Calories: 280kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon mixed spice or pumpkin pie spice
  • Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, sultanas)
  • 1/2 cup chopped candied peel
  • Optional charms: small coin, ring, pea

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake tin and line it with parchment paper.

  2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.

  4. Add Eggs and Buttermilk: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the buttermilk gradually.

  5. Incorporate Spices and Zest: Add the mixed spice or pumpkin pie spice along with orange and lemon zest to the wet mixture. Mix until combined.

  6. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

  7. Add Fruits and Charms: Fold in the dried fruits and candied peel. If you’re including charms, carefully distribute them throughout the batter.

  8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for approximately 1 hour or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the Barmbrack to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with butter and tea.

Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for this recipe, keep in mind that it may vary based on ingredients selected or substituted:

  • Serving: 1 slice
  • Calories: 280kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 18g

Indulge in this sweet and spiced Irish treat to start your day with a smile. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savouring a quiet moment, Barmbrack brings warmth and tradition to the breakfast table. Enjoy it as is, or pair it with a dollop of clotted cream for an extra touch of indulgence!

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