Irish Barmbrack

Ingredients and Weight:

• 500g plain flour
• 150g butter, softened
• 150g caster sugar
• 2 eggs
• 300ml buttermilk
• 175g raisins
• 175g sultanas
• 100g mixed peel
• 1 tsp mixed spice
• 1 tsp baking soda
• Splash of whiskey (optional)

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 1 hour

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan-assisted). Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin.
2. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the buttermilk.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and mixed spice.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the raisins, sultanas, mixed peel, and whiskey (if using).
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the barmbrack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information (per slice):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary fiber: 5g
• Protein: 5g

Dish Characteristics:

• Moist and flavorful
• Rich with fruit and spice
• Perfect for an afternoon tea or breakfast treat

User Comments:

• "This barmbrack is the perfect way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day."
• "The flavors are amazing and the texture is so soft and fluffy."
• "I love the addition of whiskey to the batter. It gives it a unique and delicious flavor."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk.
• If you don't have mixed peel, you can use a combination of candied orange peel and lemon peel.