Tea Loaf Recipe

📜 Description:

A Tea Loaf is a traditional British fruit loaf made by soaking dried fruits in tea, then baking them into a moist, lightly spiced bread. It’s often enjoyed sliced with a smear of butter and a cup of tea. It contains no added fat or dairy, making it a light yet satisfying treat.

📝 Ingredients for Tea Loaf Recipe

• 1 cup (150g) mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas, chopped dates)

• 1 cup (250ml) strong black tea (like English Breakfast or Earl Grey)

• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) self-raising flour

• 1 large egg, beaten

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

• Pinch of salt

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Soak the Fruit (Overnight or Minimum 6 Hours):
   Place the dried fruit in a bowl and pour over the hot tea. Cover and let it soak overnight or for at least 6 hours.

2. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and spices (if using).

4. Combine:
   Stir the soaked fruits (including any remaining tea), brown sugar, and beaten egg into the flour until just combined.

5. Bake:
   Pour the mixture into the prepared tin. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool:
   Let the loaf cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

📝 Notes:

• Soaking is key for flavor and texture; don’t skip or shorten the process.

• Can be stored wrapped in foil or cling film for up to 5 days.

• Flavor improves after 1–2 days.

💡 Tips:

• Use decaf tea if you’re avoiding caffeine.

• Add chopped nuts or orange zest for extra flavor.

• Replace part of the tea with a splash of dark rum or brandy for richness.

🍽️ Servings:

Makes 10–12 slices
Serving Size: 1 slice

🔍 Nutritional Info (Per Slice – Approximate):

• Calories: 180

• Carbs: 38g

• Protein: 2g

• Fat: 0.5g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugars: 22g

• Sodium: 60mg

✅ Benefits:

• Low in fat: No added butter or oil.

• Dairy-free: Suitable for lactose intolerance.

• Rich in fiber: From dried fruits.

• Great make-ahead treat: Improves with age.

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I use other types of tea?
A: Yes! Earl Grey, Chai, or fruit-infused teas all add different flavors.

Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes, replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

Q: Why soak the fruit?
A: Soaking plumps the fruit and infuses it with flavor, ensuring a moist loaf.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Absolutely! Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.