Indulgent Irish Desserts That Disintegrate Deliciously

Delve into the sweet side of Ireland's culinary heritage as we explore a selection of traditional Irish desserts that have been cherished for generations. Beyond hearty stews and soda bread, Ireland boasts a rich variety of desserts that showcase the country's resourcefulness, turning humble ingredients into extraordinary sweet treats.

Irish Apple Cake

A staple traditional dessert, the Irish Apple Cake is a moist spiced cake made with apples (often Bramley or Granny Smith), cinnamon, and nutmeg. Topped with a buttery streusel, this dessert is often served with custard sauce, making it a perfect autumn treat[1][3][4].

Barmbrack

Barmbrack, a sweet yeasted bread studded with raisins and sultanas, holds special significance in Irish culture, particularly around Halloween. Often soaked in tea and whiskey, this bread is associated with Halloween traditions involving hidden charms[4].

Porter Cake

Rich fruit cake soaked in Irish stout (usually Guinness), packed with dried fruits like raisins and candied peel, Porter Cake is traditionally made for festive occasions[4].

Gur Cake

A Dublin specialty, Gur Cake is made by sandwiching spiced fruit and cake crumbs between pastry layers. Named after "gurriers," local kids known for mischief, this dessert uses leftover cake and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg[4].

Bread and Butter Pudding

A comforting dessert made using layers of buttered bread baked with custard, often enhanced with cream and sometimes dried fruits, Bread and Butter Pudding is a simple yet delightful treat[4][5].

Rum Baba

An old-school Irish dessert, Rum Baba consists of a bread-cake soaked in a syrup infused with rum, vanilla, and aromatics[2].

Contemporary Favourites

Contemporary favourites embraced in Ireland include Guinness Cake, a rich chocolate cake made with Guinness stout and cream cheese icing, and Banoffee Pie, a layered dessert of banana, toffee, and cream on a biscuit base, although Banoffee originated in England[4][5].

Irish Shortbread

Irish Shortbread, a buttery biscuit that originated in Scotland, became thoroughly Irish through centuries of adaptation[6].

Irish Potato Candy

A sweet treat shaped like small spuds, Irish Potato Candy contains no potatoes but is rolled in cinnamon, making it a delightful surprise for unsuspecting taste buds[7].

Irish Treacle Tart

Irish Treacle Tart features a more rustic approach with oats and breadcrumbs adding texture to the golden syrup filling, showcasing Ireland's resourcefulness[8].

Apple Crumble

A traditional Irish dessert that requires just six ingredients, Apple Crumble has a buttery, sandy topping, making it a simple yet satisfying treat[9].

St Patrick's Cookies

Festive biscuits that come in various shapes like shamrocks, leprechaun hats, or Irish flag colours, St Patrick's Cookies are a fun addition to any celebration[10].

Cork and Kerry's Apple-Based Desserts

Cork and Kerry regions, known for their excellent local orchards, favour apple-based desserts, such as Boxty Pancakes (Sweet Version), served with honey, golden syrup, or fresh berries[11].

Whoopie Pies

Soft, cake-like biscuits with a fluffy cream filling, Whoopie pies resemble oversized Oreos with homemade charm[12].

Chocolate Whoopie Pies

Easy Irish desserts to make at home, Chocolate Whoopie Pies are a fun twist on the traditional Whoopie pie[12].

Carrageen Moss Pudding

A unique dessert that uses seaweed harvested from Irish shores as a natural thickening agent, Carrageen Moss Pudding is a testament to Ireland's innovative culinary spirit[13].

Oat Flapjacks

Golden syrup bars that epitomise comfort food, Oat Flapjacks can include chocolate chips or dried fruit, making them a versatile treat[14].

In Northern Ireland

Desserts in Northern Ireland often show Scottish influence, with more emphasis on oat-based treats and tablet-style sweets[15].

References:

[1] Irish Apple Cake Recipe

[2] Rum Baba Recipe

[3] Irish Apple Cake with Custard Recipe

[4] Traditional Irish Desserts

[5] Guinness Cake Recipe

[6] Irish Shortbread Recipe

[7] Irish Potato Candy Recipe