Quebecois Maple Barmbrack

Ingredients

In this Quebecois adaptation of Barmbrack, the traditional Irish tea-soaked fruitcake is transformed into a maple-infused bread. The original recipe is modified by replacing the tea with maple syrup, which adds a distinct Quebecois flavor profile. Additionally, cranberries are added to the mix of dried fruits to incorporate a local ingredient commonly found in Quebec. We alse have the original recipe for Barmbrack, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup 1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (75g) raisins 1/2 cup (75g) raisins
• 1/2 cup (75g) currants 1/2 cup (75g) currants
• 1/2 cup (75g) dried cranberries 1/2 cup (75g) dried cranberries

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 25g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, milk, melted butter, and egg.
4. 4.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. 5.
   Fold in the raisins, currants, and dried cranberries.
6. 6.
   Transfer the batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. 7.
   Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Maple syrup — Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Avoid using maple-flavored syrups, as they may contain artificial ingredients.
• Dried fruits — Soak the raisins, currants, and dried cranberries in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the batter. This will help them plump up and prevent them from drying out during baking.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of maple flavor, brush the top of the baked Barmbrack with a thin layer of maple syrup while it's still warm.
• Serve the Barmbrack toasted and spread with butter or drizzled with additional maple syrup for a decadent treat.
• If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour.

Serving advice

Slice the Quebecois Maple Barmbrack into thick slices and serve it as a delightful accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. It can also be enjoyed as a sweet breakfast or brunch treat.

Presentation advice

Present the Quebecois Maple Barmbrack on a wooden cutting board or a decorative plate. Dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Serve it alongside a small jar of maple syrup for guests to drizzle over their slices.