Infused with the richness of plump dried fruits and the aromatic embrace of strong black tea, this classic Tea Loaf recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. With just a handful of pantry staples like self-raising flour, caster sugar, and a touch of warming cinnamon, this loaf comes together effortlessly after the fruit is soaked to perfection—ideally overnight for maximum flavor. Baked to golden perfection, this dense yet tender loaf is a versatile treat, delightful on its own or slathered with butter for an extra touch of decadence. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a comforting snack, this Tea Loaf stays moist for days, making it an easy make-ahead option. Indulge in this timeless British bake that’s as easy as it is irresistible! Keywords: tea loaf recipe, classic British bake, dried fruit loaf, easy homemade tea loaf.
Place the dried mixed fruits in a large bowl and pour the strong black tea over them. Stir to combine and leave to soak for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) if using a fan oven, or 180°C (356°F) for a conventional oven. Grease and line a 2-pound (900g) loaf tin with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, sift the self-raising flour and add the caster sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix well to combine.
Crack the egg into the soaked fruit mixture and mix thoroughly.
Add the wet fruit mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until fully incorporated and no dry flour remains. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf tin, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 75 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the tea 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 spread with butter for an indulgent treat. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Calories |
2576 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 12.3 g | 16% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.9 g | 14% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 220 mg | 73% | |
| Sodium | 2140 mg | 93% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 580.4 g | 211% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 26.1 g | 93% | |
| Total Sugars | 327.9 g | ||
| Protein | 38.5 g | 77% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 211 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 8.8 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 2602 mg | 55% | |
*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.