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Discover the Joy of Welsh Baking: Master Bara Brith Cakes for a Taste of Tradition and Impress Your Family with Authentic Flavors

A beautifully sliced Bara Brith Welsh Cake, displaying its rich, moist texture filled with dried fruits and spices, sits on an elegant wooden cutting board. In the softly blurred background, a cozy home kitchen can be glimpsed, with sunlight streaming in through a window, casting a warm glow over the scene. Shadows dance gently, highlighting the cake's glossy surface, adorned with a dusting of powdered sugar, while a vintage tea set and a small vase of wildflowers add charming detail to the inviting atmosphere.

Discover the Delightful Bara Brith Welsh Cake: A Taste of Wales in Your Kitchen

Indulge in the rich flavors of Wales with our mouthwatering Bara Brith Welsh Cake recipe! This traditional Welsh treat combines the best of both worlds – a fruit-filled bread and a tender cake. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a comforting snack, Bara Brith will transport your taste buds to the rolling hills of Wales. Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients Amount
Mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas) 450g (1 lb)
Strong black tea, cooled 300ml (1¼ cups)
Self-raising flour 450g (3½ cups)
Light brown sugar 225g (1 cup)
Mixed spice 2 tsp
Large egg, beaten 1
Milk 2 tbsp
Honey (for glazing) 2 tbsp

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • 2lb loaf tin
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Pastry brush
  • Wire cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the Fruit: In a large bowl, soak the mixed dried fruits in the cooled tea overnight. This step is crucial for achieving that signature Bara Brith texture and flavor.
  2. Preheat and Prepare: The next day, preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line your 2lb loaf tin with parchment paper.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and mixed spice.
  4. Combine: Add the soaked fruit (along with any remaining tea) to the dry ingredients. Mix well, then add the beaten egg and milk. Stir until you have a thick, well-combined batter.
  5. Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf tin and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The Bara Brith is done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Glaze: While still warm, brush the top of the loaf with honey for a sweet, glossy finish.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the Bara Brith to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Serving Suggestions and Storage

Bara Brith is traditionally served sliced and spread with butter. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For the best flavor and texture, wrap the cooled Bara Brith in foil and let it rest for a day before slicing – if you can resist the temptation!

Store your Bara Brith in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Time to Bake Your Own Bara Brith!

Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on making this delicious Welsh treat, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! Your kitchen will soon be filled with the irresistible aroma of spices and fruit, and you’ll have a tasty slice of Welsh tradition to enjoy. Don’t forget to share your Bara Brith creations with friends and family – they’ll be begging for the recipe!

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