Indulge in a guilt-free treat with this Low Fat and Sugar Fruit Loaf, a wholesome bake bursting with naturally sweet dried fruits like raisins, apricots, and dates. Infused with the depth of strong brewed black tea, this moist and flavorful loaf is made with heart-healthy wholemeal flour and spiced with warming cinnamon and nutmeg for a comforting aroma. Lightened with unsweetened applesauce and a single egg, itβs a perfect low-fat alternative to traditional fruit cakes, offering a rich texture without added sugars. Quick to prepare and baked to golden perfection, this loaf is ideal for tea time or a healthy snack, keeping well for days in an airtight container. Whether enjoyed plain or with a dollop of low-fat cream cheese, this easy-to-make recipe is a satisfying choice for those looking for a lighter baked treat without compromising flavor.
Place the mixed dried fruits in a medium bowl and pour the brewed black tea over them. Cover and let the fruits soak for at least 2 hours or overnight for optimal flavor.
Preheat your oven to 160Β°C (320Β°F) and line a loaf tin (approximately 2lb/900g size) with baking parchment.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising wholemeal flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg, then mix in the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract.
Drain any excess liquid from the soaked fruits, then fold the fruits into the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated to prevent sinking during baking.
Pour the wet mixture (egg, applesauce, and vanilla) into the dry ingredients and gently combine until a thick batter forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf tin, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and serve as is or with a light spread of butter or low-fat cream cheese, if desired. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Calories |
2099 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.4 g | 21% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.7 g | 18% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 220 mg | 73% | |
| Sodium | 2377 mg | 103% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 429.2 g | 156% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 47.7 g | 170% | |
| Total Sugars | 208.9 g | ||
| Protein | 46.2 g | 92% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 598 mg | 46% | |
| Iron | 15.5 mg | 86% | |
| Potassium | 3367 mg | 72% | |
*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.