Ireland > Irish Breads > Barmbracks

Barmbrack with Whisky and Honey Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup whisky
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup currants
- 1/2 cup candied orange peel

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- parchment paper
- electric mixer
- mixing bowl
- wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

5. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.

6. Add the buttermilk, whisky, and honey and mix until just combined.

7. Fold in the raisins, currants, and candied orange peel.

8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Let 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
Serving Size: 8-10 servings

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 300
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the whisky, you can use brandy or rum.
- For the honey, you can use maple syrup or molasses.
- For the raisins and currants, you can use any dried fruit such as cranberries, blueberries, or apricots.

Variations:
- For a sweeter barmbrack, add an additional 1/4 cup of honey.
- For a spicier barmbrack, add an additional 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for best results.
- If the barmbrack is browning too quickly, cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the barmbrack with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Garnishes:
Serve with a drizzle of whisky or honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pairings:
Serve with a cup of tea or coffee.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the barmbrack is too dry, add a tablespoon of whisky or honey to the batter before baking.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the barmbrack in an airtight container at room temperature.

Food History:
Barmbrack is a traditional Irish bread that is usually served around Halloween. It is believed to have originated in the 18th century.

Flavor Profiles:
This barmbrack has a sweet and spicy flavor with notes of whisky and honey.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

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Region: Irish

Taste: Sweet, Spicy, Fruity, Nutty, Rich