How to Make Bara Brith: A Taste of Welsh Tradition

Bara brith, meaning “speckled bread” in Welsh, is a traditional sweet treat that holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs!) of many. This delightful bread, studded with juicy raisins and currants and infused with the warm spices of tea, is a true testament to the comforting flavors of Wales. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will guide you step-by-step in creating your own loaf of this iconic Welsh tea bread. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a taste of Welsh heritage!

Gathering Your Bara Brith Ingredients:

To embark on this delicious adventure, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

For the Tea Infusion:

• 1 cup (240ml) strong black tea, hot
• 1 cup (100g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas)

For the Dough:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk

Optional Glaze:

• 1/4 cup (60g) apricot jam
• 1 tbsp water

Bara Brith Ingredients

Essential Baking Tools:

Before we begin, ensure you have these tools handy:

• Two large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack
• Small saucepan (for glaze, optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Bara Brith:

1. Infuse the Fruits: In a heatproof bowl, combine the hot tea and dried fruits. Let it sit for at least 1 hour, or even better, overnight, to plump up the fruits.

2. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Set aside.

4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

5. Incorporate Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

6. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, and beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

7. Fold in Soaked Fruits: Drain the soaked fruits, reserving the tea. Gently fold the fruits into the batter.

8. Adjust Batter Consistency: If the batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved tea at a time until it reaches a dropping consistency.

9. Bake the Bara Brith: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Cool and Glaze (Optional): Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. While the bread is still warm, you can make the optional glaze by heating the apricot jam and water in a small saucepan until melted and smooth. Brush the glaze over the cooled loaf.

Baking Bara Brith

Tips and Tricks for the Best Bara Brith:

• Fruit Options: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries, chopped dates, or apricots for a personal twist.
• Soaking Time: Soaking the fruits is crucial for a moist and flavorful bara brith. Overnight soaking is ideal but even an hour makes a difference.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough bread. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Testing Doneness: If the bread starts to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Storage: Store your bara brith in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

FAQs about Making Bara Brith:

Can I use a different type of tea?
While traditional bara brith uses strong black tea, you can experiment with other teas like Earl Grey or even fruit tea for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by substituting the butter with vegan margarine, the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water), and the buttermilk with plant-based milk mixed with 1 tbsp lemon juice.

What can I serve with bara brith?
Bara brith is delicious on its own, but it’s often served sliced and buttered alongside a cup of tea. It also pairs well with a dollop of clotted cream or whipped cream.

Enjoying Bara Brith

Conclusion:

Baking your own bara brith is a rewarding experience that connects you to the heart of Welsh baking traditions. The combination of soft, spiced bread with the sweetness of the fruits is a true delight that is sure to become a family favorite. So why not gather your ingredients and embark on your own bara brith baking adventure today? You might even discover a hidden talent for creating this iconic Welsh treat! Don’t forget to share your baking experience and photos with us in the comments below. We’d love to see your delicious creations!