Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup currants
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup sultanas
- 1/2 cup chopped mixed peel
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch loaf pan
- Electric mixer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Stir in the currants, raisins, sultanas, mixed peel, orange zest, and lemon zest.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: 8-10 slices
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 250
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: Can be substituted with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Buttermilk: Can be substituted with almond milk or coconut milk.
- Currants, Raisins, Sultanas, and Mixed Peel: Can be substituted with any combination of dried fruits, such as cranberries, apricots, dates, or figs.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Substitute the orange and lemon zest with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming it with the sugar.
- Use a light hand when stirring in the dry ingredients and buttermilk to avoid overmixing the batter.
Storage Instructions:
Bara Brith with Orange and Lemon Zest can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Bara Brith with Orange and Lemon Zest can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Bara Brith with Orange and Lemon Zest can be served as is, or it can be sliced and served with butter, cream cheese, or jam.
Garnishes:
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh fruit
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
Bara Brith with Orange and Lemon Zest pairs well with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Yogurt
- Oatmeal
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the bread is browning too quickly, cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
- If the bread is not cooked through after 45 minutes, cover it with foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Always wash your hands before handling food.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using.
- Use a food thermometer to check that the bread is cooked through before serving.
Food History:
Bara Brith is a traditional Welsh fruit bread that has been around for centuries. It is usually made with currants, raisins, sultanas, and mixed peel, and is often flavored with orange and lemon zest.
Flavor Profiles:
Bara Brith with Orange and Lemon Zest has a sweet and fruity flavor with a hint of citrus.
Serving Suggestions:
Bara Brith with Orange and Lemon Zest can be served as a snack, dessert, or breakfast bread. It is also great toasted and served with butter or jam.
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Region: Welsh