Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup currants
- 1/2 cup mixed candied fruit
- 1/2 cup mixed candied peel
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x5-inch loaf pan
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
5. Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
6. Fold in the raisins, currants, candied fruit, and candied peel.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow 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: 1 hour
Temperature: 350 degrees F
Serving Size: 10-12 slices
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 300
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the butter, you can substitute vegan margarine or coconut oil.
- For the buttermilk, you can substitute plain yogurt or milk.
- For the raisins, currants, and candied fruits, you can substitute any dried fruits or nuts of your choice.
Variations:
- You can add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the batter for a crunchy texture.
- You can add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.
- You can add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a tart flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy for a light and airy texture.
- Be sure to fold in the dried fruits and nuts gently to avoid overmixing the batter.
- Allow the Barmbrack to cool completely before slicing.
Storage Instructions:
Store the Barmbrack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the Barmbrack in a preheated 350 degree F oven for 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the Barmbrack with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Slice the Barmbrack and serve it with a cup of tea for a classic Irish treat.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle the Barmbrack with powdered sugar for a sweet touch.
- Drizzle the Barmbrack with honey for a hint of sweetness.
Pairings:
- Serve the Barmbrack with a glass of Irish whiskey for a classic pairing.
- Serve the Barmbrack with a cup of coffee for a comforting treat.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve the Barmbrack with a side of fresh fruit for a light and healthy option.
- Serve the Barmbrack with a side of roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the Barmbrack is too dry, add a few tablespoons of buttermilk to the batter.
- If the Barmbrack is too dense, add a few tablespoons of baking powder to the batter.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to store the Barmbrack in an airtight container to prevent spoilage.
- Make sure to refrigerate any leftovers within 2 hours of baking.
Food History:
Barmbrack is a traditional Irish bread that is typically served around Halloween. It is believed to have originated in the 18th century and is made with a variety of dried fruits and spices.
Flavor Profiles:
This Barmbrack has a sweet and spicy flavor with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The dried fruits add a chewy texture and a hint of tartness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Barmbrack with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Slice the Barmbrack and serve it with a cup of tea for a classic Irish treat.
- Serve the Barmbrack with a glass of Irish whiskey for a classic pairing.
- Serve the Barmbrack with a cup of coffee for a comforting treat.
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Region: Irish