Bridie's Barmbrack Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup currants
- 1/2 cup mixed peel
- 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts
- 2 tablespoons whiskey

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
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 stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the raisins, currants, mixed peel, and nuts.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
9. Poke holes in the top of the cake with a skewer and pour the whiskey over the top.
10. Let cool completely before serving.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10

Nutritional Information: (per serving) Calories: 300; Fat: 12g; Carbohydrates: 41g; Protein: 5g; Sodium: 200mg

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: Can be substituted with vegan butter or margarine.
- Buttermilk: Can be substituted with almond milk or soy milk.
- Raisins: Can be substituted with dried cranberries or dried cherries.
- Currants: Can be substituted with dried blueberries or dried apricots.
- Mixed Peel: Can be substituted with chopped dates or chopped figs.
- Mixed Nuts: Can be substituted with chopped almonds or chopped walnuts.
- Whiskey: Can be substituted with brandy or rum.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or ground nutmeg for a spiced barmbrack.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped apples or chopped pears for a fruity barmbrack.
- Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder for a chocolate barmbrack.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for best results.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving.

Storage Instructions:
Barmbrack can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Barmbrack can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Barmbrack can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Garnishes:
Barmbrack can be garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of honey.

Pairings:
Barmbrack pairs well with a cup of tea or a glass of milk.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Barmbrack can be served with a side of fresh fruit or a side of yogurt.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the barmbrack is too dry, add a few tablespoons of buttermilk to the batter.
- If the barmbrack is too wet, add a few tablespoons of flour to the batter.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands before handling any ingredients.
- Make sure to use a clean utensil when stirring the batter.
- Make sure to store the barmbrack in an airtight container.

Food History:
Barmbrack is a traditional Irish fruitcake that is traditionally served during Halloween. It is believed to have originated in the 19th century and is still popular today.

Flavor Profiles:
Barmbrack has a sweet and fruity flavor with hints of whiskey and spices.

Serving Suggestions:
Barmbrack can be served as a dessert or as a snack. It can also be served with a cup of tea or a glass of milk.

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Region: Irish

Taste: Sweet, Spicy, Fruity, Nutty, Savory