Fruit bun

A traditional Jamaican sweet bread

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Fruit Bun

A traditional Jamaican fruit bun

A fruit bun is a type of sweet bread that is popular in Jamaica and other parts of the Caribbean. It is traditionally enjoyed during the Easter season, but it is also consumed year-round as a snack or dessert. The fruit bun is known for its rich, sweet flavor and dense texture, which is achieved by incorporating a variety of dried fruits and spices into the dough.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of a Jamaican fruit bun include:

• Flour
• Sugar
• Butter
• Eggs
• Milk
• Baking powder
• Mixed spice
• Raisins
• Currants
• Cherries
• Mixed peel
• Molasses or browning

The combination of these ingredients gives the fruit bun its characteristic dark color and rich flavor.

Preparation

The preparation of a fruit bun involves several steps:

1. Mixing the dry ingredients: Flour, baking powder, and mixed spice are combined in a bowl.
2. Creaming the butter and sugar: Butter and sugar are beaten together until light and fluffy.
3. Adding the wet ingredients: Eggs and milk are added to the creamed mixture.
4. Incorporating the fruits: Raisins, currants, cherries, and mixed peel are folded into the batter.
5. Baking: The mixture is poured into a loaf pan and baked until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cultural Significance

In Jamaica, the fruit bun is often paired with cheese, particularly Jamaican cheddar, to create a sweet and savory combination that is highly popular. This pairing is especially common during the Easter season, where it is a traditional treat.

Variations

While the traditional Jamaican fruit bun is the most well-known, there are several variations that can be found throughout the Caribbean. Some variations include the addition of nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, or the use of different types of dried fruits.

Related pages

• Jamaican cuisine
• Easter traditions
• Caribbean desserts