Ireland’s Search for the Best Brown Bread is Back
The National Brown Bread Baking Competition returns for 2026, once again searching for the country’s best homemade brown bread recipe — whether that includes a special ingredient, enough seeds to feed a flock of birds, or a traditional mix passed down through generations.
Sponsored by Euronics Ireland in association with the National Ploughing Association and the Irish Countrywomen’s Association, this beloved tradition has been a cornerstone of the National Ploughing Championships for generations.
Eight senior finalists will bake their brown breads live on stage at the Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Tullamore, competing for a €5,000 cash prize and a NEFF Slide&Hide® Oven. The junior competition also returns, with eight young bakers aged 12–18 joining the action.
How To Enter
Bake Your Bread
Bake your best brown bread at home using a 2lb loaf tin. All ingredients allowed for seniors; no alcoholic ingredients for juniors.
Label It Clearly
Attach your name, address, age, email and phone number. Junior entrants: include your school name and clearly mark “JUNIOR COMPETITION ENTRY”.
Drop It Off
Bring your freshly baked bread to Grahams of Monaghan on the 24th July between 9am-11am.
Baking Essentials
