Mary Berry’s Bara Brith is a classic Welsh fruit loaf, deeply rooted in the country’s culinary history. Translating to "speckled bread" in Welsh, this sweet, spiced bread features a generous mix of dried fruits like currants, raisins, and sultanas, alongside a hint of tea and warm spices. The bread is a satisfying cross between a cake and a loaf, with a dense yet soft texture. Often enjoyed sliced with butter or served as part of afternoon tea, Bara Brith carries an irresistible mix of flavors.
Berry’s version of this traditional Welsh delicacy brings a modern twist to a beloved family recipe. She places a particular emphasis on soaking the dried fruit in tea, which infuses it with a rich depth of flavor while ensuring the loaf stays moist. The inclusion of mixed spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, contributes to a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes, making the whole experience of preparing Bara Brith both comforting and indulgent. While you might encounter various regional variations of Bara Brith, Mary Berry’s approach stands out for its balanced combination of tenderness, flavor, and authenticity.
Mary Berry’s Bara Brith Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Making Mary Berry’s Bara Brith requires a combination of basic ingredients that come together to create a beautifully fragrant, spiced loaf. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need:
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Dried Fruit
- Raisins, currants, and sultanas: These provide the essential sweetness and texture to the loaf. They soak up the tea, contributing to the moistness and soft interior of the bread.
- Mixed dried fruit (optional): Some versions include chopped dried apricots or dates for added flavor, but Mary Berry sticks to the traditional mix.
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Strong Tea
- Black tea (e.g., English Breakfast or Earl Grey): The fruit is soaked in hot tea to rehydrate it, infusing it with a rich flavor that gives the loaf its unique taste. The tannins in the tea add a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the dried fruit.
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Butter
- Softened unsalted butter is used to add richness and to bind the ingredients together, creating a soft crumb in the finished loaf.
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Sugar
- Caster sugar is used for sweetness. The fine texture of caster sugar helps it dissolve quickly into the mixture, ensuring even sweetness throughout the loaf.
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Eggs
- Two large eggs are added for structure and moisture. Eggs help the loaf rise and maintain its fluffy texture.
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Self-raising Flour
- Self-raising flour is the key to achieving a light, well-risen loaf. It contains baking powder, so there’s no need to add any additional leavening agents.
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Spices
- Cinnamon and mixed spice (or allspice) add warmth and depth to the flavor. These are classic spices for Bara Brith, offering the loaf its characteristic fragrance.
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Honey (optional)
- Some recipes call for a little honey to provide additional sweetness and complexity. This can be added to Mary Berry’s recipe for a slight variation in flavor.
Equipment Needed
The equipment required to make Mary Berry’s Bara Brith is simple, and you likely already have most of these items in your kitchen:
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Mixing Bowls
- A large mixing bowl to soak the dried fruit and a separate bowl for combining the wet and dry ingredients. This helps to keep the preparation organized.
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Measuring Cups And Spoons
- Accurate measurements of ingredients are key to getting the balance of sweetness and spices just right.
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Baking Tin
- A loaf tin is essential for shaping the bread. A 2lb (900g) loaf tin works perfectly for this recipe. Make sure to line it with baking parchment or lightly grease it to prevent the loaf from sticking.
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Wooden Spoon Or Spatula
- A wooden spoon or spatula is ideal for mixing the ingredients together. It helps to incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture without overmixing, which can affect the texture.
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Tea Pot Or Jug
- To brew the tea and soak the fruit, a teapot or jug is necessary. Make sure to use enough tea to fully cover the dried fruit.
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Cooling Rack
- After the Bara Brith has baked, you’ll need a cooling rack to ensure that it cools evenly and does not become soggy on the bottom.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Bara Brith
Making Mary Berry’s Bara Brith is relatively simple, although it does require some patience to soak the dried fruit. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you recreate this delightful Welsh treat:
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Prepare The Dried Fruit
- Begin by boiling 300ml (around ½ pint) of water. Add the dried fruit to a bowl and pour the hot water over it. Allow the fruit to soak for at least 2-3 hours (or overnight if you prefer), which softens the fruit and infuses it with tea’s rich flavor.
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Brew The Tea
- While the fruit is soaking, brew 200ml of strong black tea (about 1 ½ tea bags) and let it cool. Once it’s ready, pour it over the dried fruit, ensuring that the mixture is fully soaked.
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Prepare The Loaf Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (325°F, or 150°C for fan ovens) and grease or line your loaf tin with baking parchment.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This process will ensure that the loaf has a soft, airy texture.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to incorporate them fully into the mixture before adding the next.
- Sift the self-raising flour and spices into the bowl, and gently fold in until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in a dense loaf.
- Finally, fold in the soaked fruit along with any remaining tea.
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Bake The Loaf
- Spoon the mixture into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 1 to 1 ¼ hours. The loaf is done when it has risen and is golden brown on top, and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool And Serve
- Once baked, remove the loaf from the tin and allow it to cool on a wire rack. When it’s fully cooled, slice and serve with a slather of butter or even a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.
Tips And Tricks
- Soak Overnight: For an even richer flavor, let the dried fruit soak overnight in the tea. This helps the fruit to become plump and soak up more flavor.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and mixed spice can really elevate the flavor of the loaf. If you use pre-ground spices, ensure they’re still fresh for the best taste.
- Add Nuts or Zest: You can add a handful of chopped walnuts or sultanas for an extra crunch. Alternatively, a little orange or lemon zest can provide a citrusy brightness.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter will make the loaf denser, so it’s important to fold the ingredients together gently.
- Check the Loaf: All ovens vary, so start checking your loaf at the 1-hour mark. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
Mary Berry’s Bara Brith is a wonderful representation of Welsh baking tradition, blending rich flavors with the warm aroma of spices and tea-soaked fruit. It’s easy to make, and whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as part of a festive gathering, it’s bound to impress. The balance of sweet and spiced notes, combined with the soft texture of the loaf, makes it an absolute treat. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll be able to create a loaf that brings comfort and joy, just as Mary Berry intended. Whether you stick closely to her recipe or make your own adjustments, this Bara Brith will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Bara Brith
Mary Berry’s Bara Brith, a traditional Welsh fruit bread, is renowned for its rich flavor and comforting texture. While the classic recipe is a delightful blend of dried fruits, tea, and a spongy, subtly spiced loaf, there are several creative variations that can elevate this iconic treat. If you’re looking to put your personal spin on it, here are some simple yet delicious twists that make the recipe even more versatile and exciting:
1. Spiced Orange Bara Brith
For a zesty and aromatic version, try infusing the Bara Brith with orange zest. The citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with the rich sweetness of the dried fruit and the spices. Simply add the zest of one large orange to the batter along with the usual ingredients. For extra flair, replace the mixed spice with ground cinnamon or add a teaspoon of ginger powder for a warmer, earthier profile. This variation works especially well for autumn or winter gatherings, offering a fragrant warmth to the already comforting loaf.
2. Nutty Bara Brith
To add some texture and crunch, consider incorporating chopped nuts into your Bara Brith. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds make a great choice. Toasting them lightly before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor and adds a delightful contrast to the moist, soft crumb. About 50g of your preferred nuts should suffice for a subtle nutty flavor without overpowering the other elements of the bread.
3. Chocolate Bara Brith
If you’re a fan of the sweet side of things, why not indulge in a little chocolatey twist? Adding dark chocolate chunks to your Bara Brith brings an unexpected richness to the loaf. You can also replace some of the dried fruits with dried cherries or cranberries to enhance the chocolate pairing. Just fold in the chocolate chips or pieces after you’ve combined all the other ingredients to avoid melting them completely. The result is a decadent yet comforting treat, perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious snack with a cup of tea.
4. Alcohol-Infused Bara Brith
For an adult version of this beloved bread, you can soak the dried fruits in a splash of rum, brandy, or even a good strong tea with a dash of whiskey. This variation works particularly well around the holidays or for a celebratory afternoon tea. The alcohol adds depth and a slightly warming effect to the flavor of the bread, making it even more indulgent. Soak the fruits for a few hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to really meld together.
5. Vegan Bara Brith
For those following a plant-based diet, Mary Berry’s Bara Brith can easily be made vegan. The recipe can be adapted by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative and replacing the egg with a flax or chia egg. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water, then let it sit for five minutes to thicken. Also, ensure you’re using non-dairy milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk. The result is a vegan-friendly Bara Brith that retains the same lovely, soft texture and deep flavors.
Each of these variations provides a unique twist on the traditional recipe, allowing you to enjoy Bara Brith in new and exciting ways. Whether you prefer a hint of citrus, a nutty crunch, or even a boozy infusion, these variations offer something for every taste.
Storing Leftovers
When it comes to storing Mary Berry’s Bara Brith, the goal is to maintain its moist, tender texture while preserving its fresh flavors. Proper storage ensures that the bread stays delicious for several days or even longer. Here’s how to store your Bara Brith properly and keep it tasting fresh:
1. Room Temperature Storage
For short-term storage, you can keep your Bara Brith at room temperature. Simply wrap the loaf in parchment paper, followed by a layer of foil, to protect it from drying out. Placing the wrapped bread inside an airtight container or a large zip-lock bag will also help prevent it from becoming stale. Stored this way, the bread will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.
2. Freezing Leftovers
If you have leftover Bara Brith that you won’t be able to eat within a few days, freezing it is a great option to prolong its shelf life. Start by slicing the loaf into individual portions, making it easier to defrost only what you need. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place the slices in an airtight freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy a piece, simply thaw it at room temperature or heat it up in the microwave for a few seconds. Bara Brith can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
3. Avoid Refrigeration
It might be tempting to refrigerate Bara Brith to extend its shelf life, but this isn’t recommended as it can cause the bread to dry out more quickly. The cool, dry air inside the fridge strips moisture from the loaf, resulting in a tougher, denser texture. Instead, stick to room temperature storage or freezing for longer periods.
4. Reviving Leftovers
If your Bara Brith has started to dry out, don’t worry! There are ways to bring it back to life. A simple solution is to warm it slightly in the microwave with a damp paper towel to add moisture. You can also lightly toast slices of Bara Brith, which enhances the flavors and adds a satisfying crispness to the outer edges, while keeping the inside soft.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Bara Brith?
Mary Berry’s Bara Brith is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of delicious accompaniments, whether you’re serving it for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a sweet snack. Here are a few ideas for what to eat with this lovely fruit bread:
1. Butter And Jam
The classic pairing of Bara Brith with a generous slather of butter and your favorite jam is always a winner. The richness of the butter complements the sweet, fruity loaf, while the jam (whether strawberry, apricot, or even a tangy marmalade) adds an extra burst of flavor. This combination is perfect for a comforting breakfast or a light afternoon snack with a cup of tea.
2. Cheese
Although sweet, Bara Brith can pair surprisingly well with cheese, especially milder cheeses like cream cheese or soft goat cheese. The mild tang of cream cheese balances out the sweetness of the bread, while a soft goat cheese adds a creamy contrast. For a more savory twist, try pairing it with a sharp cheddar or a wedge of brie for an interesting flavor combination.
3. Clotted Cream
For an indulgent treat, spread some clotted cream over your Bara Brith. This luxurious, thick cream adds richness and depth to the already soft and moist bread. A drizzle of honey over the clotted cream can elevate the flavor even more, making it a decadent addition to any tea or brunch spread.
4. Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries, blueberries, or figs also pairs beautifully with Bara Brith. The fresh, juicy burst of fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the dense, spiced bread. A few slices of apple or pear work wonderfully too, offering a crisp texture and balancing out the sweetness of the Bara Brith.
5. Tea Or Coffee
Of course, a slice of Mary Berry’s Bara Brith goes wonderfully with a hot beverage. Whether it’s a strong cup of English Breakfast tea or a smooth, rich coffee, the combination of flavors is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. You can even serve it as part of a full tea service, alongside other treats like scones or shortbread.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Bara Brith is a delightful, versatile treat that blends tradition with rich, comforting flavors. Its flexibility allows for easy variations, whether you’re adding a zesty orange twist, a handful of nuts, or even a touch of chocolate. The recipe can also be made vegan or infused with alcohol for a more festive touch. When storing leftovers, keeping the bread wrapped and sealed ensures it stays moist and fresh for days, while freezing it for longer storage helps you enjoy it for weeks.
No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Bara Brith pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments, from butter and jam to creamy cheeses and fresh fruit. It’s a perfect addition to any tea or breakfast table, offering both a satisfying texture and a comforting taste. Whether served plain or with a twist, Mary Berry’s Bara Brith is sure to delight anyone who takes a bite.
FAQs
What Makes Mary Berry’s Bara Brith Recipe Unique?
Mary Berry’s bara brith recipe stands out because of its balanced combination of dried fruits, such as currants, raisins, and sultanas, alongside a hint of spices like mixed spice and cinnamon. She also uses strong tea to soak the fruit, which enhances the flavor and moisture of the bread. Her approach is simple yet rich, providing a perfect texture that is neither too dry nor too sticky.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Bara Brith Recipe Without Mixed Spice?
Yes, you can still make Mary Berry’s bara brith without mixed spice. If you don’t have it, a good alternative is to use a combination of ground cinnamon and nutmeg. This will mimic the warmth and depth of flavor that mixed spice typically provides. However, the exact taste will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Mary Berry’s Bara Brith After Baking?
After baking Mary Berry’s bara brith, it’s best to allow it to cool completely before storing. Wrap it in parchment paper and then in foil or an airtight container to keep it fresh. Stored this way, it will last for up to 4-5 days at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze slices of the bara brith for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy whenever you like!
