Bara Brith Recipe Vegan: Easy and Delicious Guide

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about bara brith, a traditional Welsh tea bread packed with dried fruits and warm spices. This loaf is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea, a weekend brunch, or a sweet snack to brighten your day.

The best part? You don’t have to give up your vegan lifestyle to enjoy this classic treat.

Our vegan bara brith recipe is moist, flavorful, and filled with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike.

In this recipe, we’ll explore how to make a delicious vegan adaptation of this beloved bread using plant-based substitutes that keep the texture and taste true to the original. From soaking the mixed dried fruits in tea to the gentle spices that infuse every bite, this bara brith will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Ready to bake a loaf that’s bursting with rich, fruity goodness? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan bara brith recipe is a perfect blend of tradition and plant-based innovation. It captures the essence of classic Welsh baking with none of the animal products.

Using simple pantry staples and natural sweeteners, this bread is not only kinder to animals but also healthier and easy to make.

The ingredients are soaked in strong black tea, which imparts a unique depth of flavor and keeps the bread wonderfully moist. Plus, it’s versatile—you can tweak the spices or fruit mix to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe guides you through making a loaf that’s fragrant, tender, and perfect for spreading with vegan butter or your favorite jam.

Ingredients

• 1 cup strong brewed black tea (cooled)
• 1 cup mixed dried fruit (currants, raisins, chopped dried apricots, and sultanas)
• 2 cups self-raising flour
• 1/2 cup light muscovado sugar
• 1 tsp ground mixed spice (or cinnamon and nutmeg blend)
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp sunflower oil (or any neutral oil)
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water (flax egg)
• 1 tsp baking soda

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Loaf tin (8 x 4 inches recommended)
• Whisk or fork
• Small bowl for flax egg
• Sieve for flour (optional)
• Cooling rack
• Teaspoon and tablespoon
• Oven

Instructions

1. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let it rest for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to a gel-like consistency.
2. Soak the dried fruit: Pour the cooled strong black tea over the mixed dried fruit in a bowl. Let it soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible, to plump the fruit and infuse the tea flavor.
3. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your loaf tin with parchment paper for easy removal.
4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift the self-raising flour, ground mixed spice, ground cloves, salt, and baking soda. Add the sugar and mix thoroughly.
5. Add the wet ingredients: Stir in the flax egg and sunflower oil into the soaked fruit and tea mixture. Then fold this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
6. Transfer to loaf tin: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
7. Bake: Place the loaf tin in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
8. Cool: Remove the bara brith from the oven and let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

“Soaking the dried fruit overnight really enhances the flavor and texture of your bara brith. Don’t skip this step!”

• If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but be sure to check that it contains baking powder or soda, or add accordingly.
• Try adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the soaked fruit for a citrus twist.
• Swap out the mixed dried fruit for your favorites—dried cherries, cranberries, or chopped dates work beautifully too.
• For extra richness, brush the top of the loaf with a little vegan butter while still warm.
• Use a cinnamon stick in the tea as it brews for a subtle spice hint.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan bara brith is delightful served warm or at room temperature. Spread it generously with vegan butter or your favorite fruit jam for a truly indulgent treat.

It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal snack or breakfast option.

For a heartier option, you can serve slices alongside a vegan cheese platter or fresh fruit. It also makes a charming addition to festive gatherings or afternoon tea parties.

Feeling adventurous? Try it toasted lightly with a smear of nut butter or vegan cream cheese for a modern twist on this classic.

Conclusion

Our vegan bara brith recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a traditional Welsh favorite without compromising your plant-based values. This bread’s rich, fruity flavor and tender crumb make it a satisfying and comforting bake perfect for any time of day.

The simple ingredients and straightforward method make it accessible to bakers of all skill levels, while the optional variations give you room to personalize your loaf.

Once you try this recipe, you may find yourself coming back to it again and again, whether for a quiet moment with tea or to impress friends with your baking prowess. Don’t forget to explore more delicious vegan recipes like Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe, Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe, and Lavender Frappe Recipe for even more plant-based inspiration.

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