Spelt Irish Barmbrack (Halloween Bread)

What Makes This Spelt Barmbrack Special

Spelt Irish Barmbrack is a classic Halloween treat from Ireland — a moist, fruit-filled loaf steeped in tea and warm spices. Traditionally, small charms were baked inside to predict fortunes for the year ahead, making it both delicious and symbolic.

This modern version keeps the comforting flavours but uses spelt flour for a nuttier taste and easier digestion. The result is a wholesome loaf that’s soft, subtly sweet, and packed with raisins and mixed peel — perfect for breakfast, teatime, or late-night autumn cravings.

🎃 A Perfect Halloween or Autumn Bake

If you enjoy simple baking with rich flavour, this is your recipe. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and smells incredible while baking. You can even prepare it a day ahead — the flavour deepens overnight, making it even more irresistible.

Serve it warm with butter or enjoy it plain with tea. Either way, this spelt barmbrack delivers cosy autumn comfort in every bite — ideal for sharing at any Halloween party or quiet evening by the fire.

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 1 hr

Rest Time 8 hrs

Total Time 9 hrs 20 mins

Cuisine: Irish

Courses: Breakfast, Dessert, snack

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 10

Estimated Cost: 5

Calories: 240

Best Season: Fall

Dietary: Vegetarian

Description

A moist, fruit-studded Irish loaf made with spelt flour, tea-soaked dried fruit, and gentle spices. Perfect for autumn, this traditional Halloween bread offers warmth and nostalgia in every slice.

Ingredients

225 g mixed dried fruit, soaked overnight
250 ml strong black tea, cold (use Irish breakfast or English breakfast)
225 g spelt flour, white or wholegrain
1 tsp baking powder
75 g light brown sugar
1 tsp mixed spice
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 large egg, beaten
1 tbsp honey (optional, for glaze)

Instructions

Soak the Fruit:

1
Place the dried fruit in a bowl and pour over the cold tea. Cover and leave to soak overnight (or at least 6 hours).

Preheat Oven:

2
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Line a 1lb loaf tin with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

3
In a large bowl, combine spelt flour, baking powder, sugar, and spices.

Combine Wet Ingredients:

4
Stir the soaked fruit and tea into the dry mix. Add the beaten egg and mix until combined. The batter should be thick but spoonable.

Bake:

5
Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 60 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.

Glaze (Optional):

6
Warm honey slightly and brush it over the top of the loaf while still hot for a shiny finish.

Cool & Serve:

7
Allow to cool before slicing. Serve plain or spread with butter.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 10

Amount Per Serving
Calories 240kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 2.5g4%
Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
Cholesterol 25mg9%
Sodium 60mg3%
Potassium 180mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 28g
Protein 5g10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Best enjoyed the day after baking for a richer flavour.

Wrap tightly in foil and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

You can freeze slices for up to 2 months — just thaw and warm before serving.

Keywords: Halloween bread, spelt, Irish barmbrack, tea loaf, fruit loaf, autumn baking, traditional

Tips & Variations

No Egg Option: Replace the egg with 2 tbsp of apple sauce or mashed banana for a vegan-friendly version.
Add a Twist: Mix in chopped nuts, cranberries, or a splash of whiskey for extra warmth and flavour.
Charm Tradition: For an authentic Halloween touch, wrap a clean coin or ring in baking paper and bake it inside (ensure guests are aware before serving!).

Conclusion

This Spelt Irish Barmbrack blends old Irish tradition with a wholesome modern twist. Its rich flavour, soft crumb, and natural sweetness make it perfect for autumn mornings or festive gatherings. Bake it once, and it’ll become a yearly favourite in your home.

So, put the kettle on, slice your barmbrack, and enjoy a taste of Irish Halloween heritage.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-irish-barmbrack-halloween-bread/

Valentina

A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!