Fruity Tea Loaf

Infused with the comforting aromas of mixed spice and delicately steeped tea, this Fruity Tea Loaf is the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it an irresistible treat for any time of day. Packed with plump, juicy dried fruits like raisins, currants, sultanas, and apricots, this loaf is a triumph of texture and flavor. The secret to its moist, tender crumb is the overnight soaking of the fruit in strong black tea, allowing every bite to burst with rich, infused goodness. Easy to prepare with a single egg and pantry staples like self-raising flour and light brown sugar, this recipe offers a no-fuss baking experience. Whether enjoyed plain, slathered with butter, or paired with your favorite cup of tea, this traditional tea loaf is a timeless delight. With just 20 minutes of prep time and 10 generous servings, it’s an ideal bake to share with family or friends. Perfect for afternoon tea, brunch, or snacking, this fruity loaf brings the cozy taste of homemade baking to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 300 g dried mixed fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas, chopped apricots, etc.)
• 250 ml strong black tea
• 125 g light brown sugar
• 250 g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp mixed spice
• 1 large egg

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, add the dried mixed fruit and pour over the strong black tea. Mix well, cover, and let the fruit soak overnight or for at least 4 hours. This helps plump up the fruit and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2

Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) or 140°C for a fan oven. Grease and line a 2 lb (900g) loaf tin with parchment paper.

Step 3

After soaking, add the light brown sugar to the fruit and tea mixture. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.

Step 4

Sift the self-raising flour and mixed spice over the fruit mixture. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 5

Crack the egg into the bowl and beat it into the mixture, ensuring it is well incorporated.

Step 6

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and level the top with a spatula.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 90 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8

Once baked, remove the tea loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9

Slice and serve plain with tea or enjoy with butter, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	854.9 grams (854.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1968

Total Fat 9.40g	12%
Saturated Fat 2.40g	12%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 186mg	62%
Sodium 2110mg	92%
Total Carbohydrate 432.60g	157%
Dietary Fiber 25.00g	89%
Total Sugars 196.20g
Protein 38.20g	76%

Vitamin D 41IU	205%
Calcium 218mg	17%
Iron 9mg	47%
Potassium 2684mg	57%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 4.3%

Protein: 7.8%

Carbs: 87.9%