To celebrate St Patrick’s Day in style we decided to try something a little different! Barmbrack is a traditional Irish loaf, usually served at Halloween. This treat will no doubt be eaten quickly but will keep for about 10 days if needed.
Toast a slice and lather it in butter for an extra indulgence!
We have simplified the recipe for you but for the full recipe and instructions visit http://bit.ly/1Xa3Q5g
Ingredients
- 225g strong white flour
- 2 tbsp mixed spice
- ¼ tsp salt
- 25g butter
- 1 x 7g sachet fast-action yeast
- 50g caster sugar
- 150ml lukewarm milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 200g mixed dried fruit
- 25g chopped mixed candied peel
Method
- Mix the sifted flour, mixed spice and salt in a bowl
- Add the butter, yeast and sugar. Beat together
- Add the lukewarm milk to the flour mixture
- Add one beaten egg
- Mix until dough forms
- Knead for 8 minutes by hand or for 5 minutes in the mixer
- Add the dried fruit/mixed peel and knead for another 2 minutes to combine
- Transfer dough into tin
- Cover with a light tea towel and leave to prove for 1 hour, or until doubled in size
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/gas mark 4
- Remove the covering and bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown