Barmbrack

Barmbrack, often referred to simply as "brack" is a beloved Irish quick bread filled with sultanas and raisins. It holds a special place during Halloween in Ireland, largely due to the charming tradition of hiding various objects inside the bread to predict the finder's fortune for the upcoming year. These objects typically include a pea, a stick, a piece of cloth, a coin, and a ring. Nowadays, commercially available Halloween barmbracks often come with a toy ring inside.

Traditionally shaped into flattened rounds, barmbrack is best enjoyed toasted with butter, accompanied by a cup of tea, making it a favorite snack in Ireland. Its dough is sweeter than that of regular bread but not as rich as cake. The sultanas and raisins contribute bursts of flavor and texture. Sometimes called "Bairín Breac" meaning "speckled loaf" in Irish, the name likely refers to the raisins scattered throughout the bread. There is also a whimsical tradition of throwing bits of barmbrack at the back door on New Year’s Day to ward off poverty.