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Homemade Bara Brith (Welsh Tea Bread) photo

Bara Brith (Welsh Tea Bread)

This Bara Brith is a delightful tea bread bursting with fruity flavors and aromatic spices!
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Welsh
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bread:
  • 10 ounces raisins and sultanas
  • 4 ounces dried black currants
  • 1 ounce candied lemon peel
  • 1 ounce candied orange peel
  • 1 1/3 cups very strong black tea
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 3 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons mixed spice
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Loaf pan
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Oven thermometer

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. In a bowl, combine the raisins, sultanas, and black currants. Pour over the very strong black tea, ensuring all the fruits are submerged. Let this mixture soak for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight.
  2. If using homemade candied lemon and orange peel, prepare this beforehand.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, baking powder, mixed spice, and salt until well combined.
  5. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the softened butter and beaten egg. Mix until just combined.
  6. Gently fold in the soaked fruit mixture, including any remaining tea, along with the candied lemon and orange peel.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Notes

  • Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread.
  • Try pairing it with different spreads like cream cheese or fruit preserves.