Cakes & CupcakesNo. 2692 · The 2026 edition
Irish Halloween Barmbrack Recipe
Bake a traditional Irish Halloween barmbrack with dried fruit and spice – perfect for a spooky celebration.
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This traditional Irish Barmbrack is a sweet yeast bread studded with dried fruit, candied peel, and grated apple. After a two-stage rise, it's baked until golden and sounds hollow when tapped. For authentic flavor, wrap and rest overnight – a delightful Halloween treat.
Ingredients
Equipment
- baking sheet
- large bowl
- wire rack
Directions
- Combine flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Cut in the softened butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture looks like fine crumbs. Stir in the sugar and yeast.
- Warm the milk slightly (should be lukewarm) and add it to the flour mixture along with a beaten egg. Mix everything together to form a soft dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough to release air. Then knead in the mixed dried fruit, candied citrus peel, mixed spice (or pumpkin pie spice), and the grated apple until evenly distributed.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and set it on a greased baking sheet. Cover again and let it rise a second time until doubled.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when you tap the bottom.
- Transfer the barmbrack to a wire rack to cool completely. For best flavor, wrap it in foil and let it sit overnight before serving.
