Irish Freckle Bread Recipe: A Taste of County Cork
This delightful Irish Freckle Bread recipe hails from the picturesque County Cork in Ireland, offering a comforting taste of tradition right in your kitchen. With its unique combination of ingredients, including mashed potatoes and raisins, this bread is not only a testament to culinary heritage but also a fantastic addition to your brunch table. The recipe is straightforward and allows for plenty of personal touches, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or a cozy weekend breakfast. Not to mention, it freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy it even after the baking day has passed.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Prep Time | 2 hours (includes rising and kneading time) |
| Total Time | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Category | Yeast Breads |
| Yield | 1 loaf |
| Keywords | Breads, European, Healthy, Brunch, Oven, < 4 Hours |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5 from 1 review) |
| Calories | 3327.7 per loaf |
| Fat Content | 107.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 62.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 668.1 mg |
| Sodium | 2147.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 538.4 g |
| Fiber | 18.6 g |
| Sugar | 189.3 g |
| Protein | 63.7 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Active dry yeast | 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) |
| Sugar | 8 tablespoons (divided) |
| Warm water | 1 cup |
| Butter | 1/2 cup (softened) |
| Margarine | 2 tablespoons |
| Eggs | 1 large |
| Mashed potatoes | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 3 1/4 to 4 cups |
| Raisins | 1 cup |
Instructions
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Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the active dry yeast with 1 tablespoon of sugar and warm water. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready for use.
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Mix the Base: To the yeast mixture, add the softened butter, eggs, mashed potatoes, remaining sugar, and salt. Begin mixing these ingredients together, ensuring they are well combined.
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Incorporate Flour: Gradually stir in 2 cups of all-purpose flour to form a thick batter. Mix until smooth and creamy. The potatoes will add moisture and richness to the dough.
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Add Raisins: Gently fold in the raisins, which will provide a lovely sweetness and texture to the bread. Gradually add enough of the remaining flour to create a soft dough.
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Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 6-8 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky, allowing you to handle it easily.
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First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, turning it once to coat the top with grease. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area until it has doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
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Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. This step is crucial to developing the bread’s texture.
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Divide and Shape: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into eight equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball, ensuring that the dough is tight and well-formed.
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Second Rise: Place the shaped dough balls into a greased 10-inch springform pan, arranging them so that they are touching. Cover the pan again and let the dough rise until doubled, which should take about 30 minutes.
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Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips and make transferring easier.
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Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, tempting everyone nearby.
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Cool the Bread: Once baked, remove the sides of the springform pan carefully. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack, which will help it maintain its texture and prevent sogginess at the base.
Serving Suggestions
This Irish Freckle Bread is delightful served warm, with a smear of butter or a spread of your choice. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal treat for brunch or afternoon tea. For an extra special touch, serve it alongside a selection of cheeses or spreads, and watch as your guests enjoy the comforting flavors and heartiness of this traditional Irish bread.
Storage Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers or wish to prepare this bread ahead of time, simply wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
Irish Freckle Bread is not just a recipe; it’s a slice of history and a representation of the warm, inviting culture of Ireland. This bread is sure to become a cherished part of your family’s recipe collection, bringing comfort and joy for years to come. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet morning, this bread offers a unique taste of the Emerald Isle that everyone will love.
Enjoy!
Explore the delightful flavors of this Irish classic and let it bring a bit of Ireland into your home. Happy baking!
