Traditional Halloween Maize Barmbrack Recipe

Barmbrack is a traditional Halloween bread, often enjoyed during the spooky season. This sweet and aromatic loaf is filled with raisins and infused with warm spices, making it a perfect treat for cold autumn days. The unique texture is created by the combination of yeast and milk, resulting in a fluffy dough that's neither too dense nor too airy. An exquisite orange glaze adds a zesty touch to the barmbrack, enhancing its flavor profile and creating a glossy finish. This recipe involves simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. Sharing it with family or friends can be a delightful tradition, as each slice holds a surprise. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this barmbrack is sure to impress. It allows for variations to suit different tastes, while the use of alcohol-soaked raisins adds depth. Enjoy this nostalgic bread as a centerpiece of your Halloween festivities.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 100 ml milk
• 10 g fresh yeast
• 1 orange
• 25 g butter
• 1 small egg
• 300 g flour
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 70 g dark raisins
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Glaze

• Powdered sugar
• Orange juice

Crumble Topping (1:1:1 ratio)

• Flour
• Sugar
• Butter

Preparation Time

Total Time: 120 minutes (Including prep and cook).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Raisins: Before starting the main dough, soak the raisins in lemon juice or brandy for an hour. This step revives the raisins, adding moisture and flavor to the final bread.
2. Activate Yeast: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar over the yeast and allow it to dissolve and become bubbly, indicating it's activated.
3. Warm the Milk: Heat the milk until it's warm to the touch, helping to activate the yeast further.
4. Mix Egg and Spices: Lightly beat the egg with the remaining sugar. Add the cinnamon and cardamom to infuse spices into the sugar.
5. Prepare Orange: Grate the orange zest and add it to the egg mixture, reserving some for the glaze.
6. Combine Milk and Yeast: Pour the warm milk over the dissolved yeast, mixing gently to combine.
7. Juice the Orange: Squeeze juice from half an orange, ensuring it's fresh for optimal flavor.
8. Integrate Ingredients: Pour the milk and yeast mixture into the egg blend, stirring well. Add the orange juice and melted butter, continuing to mix.
9. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add 1 cup of flour into the wet ingredients, creating a smooth batter.
10. Add Raisins: Drain the soaked raisins and fold them into the dough, incorporating them evenly.
11. Knead the Dough: Combine the remaining flour and knead the dough until it is firm but not dry. The texture should be pliable.
12. First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with cling film, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about one hour, doubling in size.
13. Prepare Baking Dish: After the dough has risen, transfer it to a buttered baking dish, shaping it as desired.
14. Second Rise: Let the dough rise again for an additional 30 minutes in a warm spot, covered with a cloth.
15. Make Crumble: Mix equal parts flour, sugar, and butter to create a crumbly mixture, sprinkling over the risen dough.
16. Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake the barmbrack for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
17. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the form, then remove and place on a wire rack.
18. Prepare Glaze: Combine freshly squeezed orange juice from the remaining half with powdered sugar until a thick, slow-flowing consistency is achieved.
19. Apply Glaze: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled barmbrack. If desired, embellish with sugar granules for an extra sweet touch.
20. Serve: Slice the barmbrack when ready to serve, enjoying its rich aroma and taste with each bite.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use dried cranberries or mixed berries instead of raisins for a different flavor.
• Alcohol-Free: Skip the alcohol soak or use apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
• Room Temperature: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and egg, are at room temperature for even mixing.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 230 per slice
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 6g
• Carbs: 40g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Substitute: Use plant-based milk and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) in place of regular milk and egg.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with: Hot tea or coffee for a comforting snack.
• Side Dish: Serve with a fresh fruit salad for added freshness.

Best Places

1. Café Barmbrack - A cozy spot known for its authentic barmbrack, served with homemade butter. Location: 45 Main St, Dublin, Ireland.

2. The Toasted Pumpkin - Offers a unique twist on barmbrack with pumpkin spices. Location: 87 Elm Rd, Boston, USA.

3. The Loaf Lounge - Known for its delightful range of Irish breads including barmbrack. Location: 23 Baker St, London, UK.

4. Spices & Slices - Combines local flavors with traditional recipes. Location: 12 Orchard Ave, Toronto, Canada.

5. Maison de Brioche - Elegant setting perfect for sampling their special barmbrack. Location: 99 Rue Rivoli, Paris, France.

6. Barmbrack Corner - Features seasonal variations of traditional barmbrack. Location: 72 Market Ave, Sydney, Australia.

7. The Artisan Kitchen - Renowned for its attention to detail and quality ingredients. Location: 33 Victoria St, Wellington, New Zealand.

8. Ye Olde Bakery - Step back in time with their historic recipes. Location: 15 Chapel Ln, Edinburgh, Scotland.

9. Café Aroma - Specializes in a wide array of flavored bracks. Location: 59 King St, Cape Town, South Africa.

10. Le Pain des Amis - Offers a modern take with a focus on organic ingredients. Location: 24 Boulevard Raspail, Lyon, France.