This delightful Mary Berry Bara Brith is prepared using Assam black tea, mixed dried fruits, candied orange peel, dark brown sugar, and all-purpose flour. This flavorful Bara Brith recipe is a wonderful tea loaf that takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 10 people.
Mary Berry Bara Brith Ingredients
- 300ml strong Assam black tea
- 500g mixed dried fruits (sultanas, raisins, and currants)
- 50g candied orange peel
- 150g dark brown sugar
- 3 tbsp orange marmalade
- 300g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp mixed spice
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 50g butter, melted
- 150ml milk
- 2 tbsp apricot jam
- Optional. a splash of brandy
How To Make Mary Berry Bara Brith
- Soak the fruits: prepare the mixed dried fruits and candied orange peel by soaking them in brewed Assam tea in a large bowl, then cover and let sit overnight to allow the fruits to swell and absorb the tea flavor.
- Preheat the oven and prepare the tin: preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and grease a 900g (2lb) loaf tin thoroughly to ensure the cake does not stick during baking.
- Combine the fruit mixture: add the dark brown sugar, orange marmalade, and mixed spice to the soaked fruit mixture, then stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed.
- Mix in wet ingredients: prepare the batter by mixing in the beaten egg, melted butter, and milk into the fruit mixture, stirring continuously until the batter becomes smooth and fragrant.
- Incorporate the flour: gradually add the all-purpose flour to the batter, stirring continuously until there are no visible lumps and the mixture is uniform and well-combined.
- Prepare for baking: pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and level the surface with a spatula to ensure even baking and a smooth top.
- Bake and finish: bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. While the Bara Brith is still warm, glaze the top with apricot jam to create a glossy finish.
Recipe Tips
- Use quality tea: Use a high-quality Assam black tea to ensure a rich and robust flavor in your Bara Brith.
- Properly soak fruits: Soak your mixed dried fruits and candied orange peel overnight in tea to fully absorb the flavors.
- Ensure smooth batter: Mix the batter well to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth and even consistency for the perfect texture.
- Check for doneness: Insert a skewer into the center of the cake to check for doneness; it should come out clean.
- Enhance flavor: For an extra touch, drizzle warm brandy over the warm cake to enhance its flavor profile.
What To Serve With Bara Brith
Serve your delicious Bara Brith with clotted cream, fresh berries, lemon curd, a dollop of mascarpone, or a slice of sharp cheddar cheese.
You can also pair with a warm cup of chai tea, a glass of sweet sherry, or a drizzle of honey.
How To Store Bara Brith
To Refrigerate: Wrap the Bara Brith tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
To Freeze: Wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to three months.
How To Reheat Bara Brith
In The Oven: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Wrap the Bara Brith in aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 10-15 minutes. This helps retain moisture and keeps it soft.
In The Microwave: Place a slice of Bara Brith on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
In The Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F). Place a slice of Bara Brith in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-4 minutes, checking for desired warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I soak the dried fruits for Bara Brith?
Soak the dried fruits and candied orange peel in strong Assam tea overnight to allow them to fully absorb the tea’s flavors and become plump.
Can I use a different type of tea for soaking the fruits?
You can use other black teas, but Assam tea is preferred for its strong flavor, which complements the Bara Brith recipe.
Is it necessary to use mixed spice in Bara Brith?
Yes, mixed spice adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the Bara Brith. If unavailable, you can use a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
Mary Berry Bara Brith Nutrition Facts
Amount Per Serving
- Calories:280 kcal
- Total Fat:8g
- Saturated Fat:4g
- Trans Fat : 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium:180mg
- Total Carbohydrates:50g
- Dietary Fiber:2g
- Sugars:25g
- Protein:4g
Try More Mary Berry Recipes:
Mary Berry Bara Brith Recipe
Description
This delightful Mary Berry Bara Brith is prepared using Assam black tea, mixed dried fruits, candied orange peel, dark brown sugar, and all-purpose flour. This flavorful Bara Brith recipe is a wonderful tea loaf that takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 10 people.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the fruits: prepare the mixed dried fruits and candied orange peel by soaking them in brewed Assam tea in a large bowl, then cover and let sit overnight to allow the fruits to swell and absorb the tea flavor.
- Preheat the oven and prepare the tin: preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and grease a 900g (2lb) loaf tin thoroughly to ensure the cake does not stick during baking.
- Combine the fruit mixture: add the dark brown sugar, orange marmalade, and mixed spice to the soaked fruit mixture, then stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed.
- Mix in wet ingredients: prepare the batter by mixing in the beaten egg, melted butter, and milk into the fruit mixture, stirring continuously until the batter becomes smooth and fragrant.
- Incorporate the flour: gradually add the all-purpose flour to the batter, stirring continuously until there are no visible lumps and the mixture is uniform and well-combined.
- Prepare for baking: pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and level the surface with a spatula to ensure even baking and a smooth top.
- Bake and finish: bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. While the Bara Brith is still warm, glaze the top with apricot jam to create a glossy finish.