Introduction

There’s something magical about the comforting aroma of tea that wafts through my kitchen, especially when it mingles with the sweet scent of freshly baked treats. Living in suburban Massachusetts, my tea-drinking habits might be a bit on the extravagant side compared to my neighbors, but it’s just a normal day for me. You see, in Northern Ireland, where my heart feels right at home, tea is not just a beverage; it’s a way of life.

This week, I’m bringing a piece of that comforting culture to you with a delightful recipe for Tea Loaf. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill bake; it’s a simple and straightforward creation that demands minimal hands-on time but delivers a taste that’s anything but ordinary.

Pro Tip: Soak the dried fruit overnight if you can, but if time is not on your side, a few hours will do the trick. And, while patience is a virtue, waiting a day before indulging in this tea-infused delight is recommended. But hey, no judgments if you can’t resist the temptation and decide to dive in as soon as it’s almost cool!

Prep Time: Cook Time: Stand Time: Total Time: Servings:

Prep Time	Cook Time	Stand Time	Total Time	Servings
30 minutes	1 hour	Overnight	1 day (including stand and cook time)	10 slices

Ingredients

To embark on this delightful tea-infused journey, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 fl oz or 225ml hot tea
• 5 oz or 150g mixed, dried fruit
• 5 oz or 150g dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp mixed spice (pumpkin pie spice)
• 10 oz or 285g self-raising flour
• 1 egg, beaten

Cookware Needed

To bring this Tea Loaf to life, make sure you have the following cookware on hand:

• 2lb loaf tin
• Baking parchment
• Mixing bowl
• Sifter
• Spoon
• Cooling rack

Now, let’s dive into the delightful process of crafting this Tea Loaf!

Instructions

Step 1: The Night Before

1. Place the sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and dried fruit in a mixing bowl.
2. Generously sprinkle a teaspoon of each spice over the mixture.
3. Pour hot tea over the concoction, ensuring it’s well-mingled.
4. Leave it to soak overnight, allowing the flavors to meld into a symphony of taste.

Step 2: On the Baking Day

1. Preheat your oven to 325F/160C for a conventional oven.
2. Line a 2lb loaf tin with baking parchment, ensuring a seamless removal after baking.

Step 3: Mixing the Magic

1. Sift the self-raising flour into the soaked fruit and spices.
2. Add the beaten egg to the mix, creating a delightful concoction.
3. Stir well, ensuring every element is beautifully integrated.

Step 4: Baking Brilliance

1. Spoon the mixture into the prepared loaf tin, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake at 325F/160C for approximately 60 minutes. Begin checking around the 50-minute mark, as oven temperatures may vary.
3. The Tea Loaf should be a gorgeous brown hue, and a skewer should come out clean when inserted.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. Let the loaf cool in the tin, allowing the flavors to settle.
2. Optionally, brush the top with honey or maple syrup for a glossy finish.
3. If you can resist the temptation, wait until the next day before slicing.
4. Slice and liberally butter each piece.

Now, savor the fruits of your baking endeavor with a hot cup of tea and relish the simplicity of this delightful Tea Loaf!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values for a serving of this Tea Loaf:

Nutrient	Actual Values
Calories	220 calories
Total Fat	4.5 g
Saturated Fat	2.5 g
Cholesterol	20 mg
Sodium	180 mg
Total Carbohydrates	42 g
Dietary Fiber	2.5 g
Sugars	25 g
Protein	3 g

Note: Actual nutritional values are based on specific ingredients used in the recipe.

Conclusion: A Heartwarming Tea-Infused Affair

As I take a moment to reflect on this Tea Loaf journey, I am reminded of the simplicity and warmth that a humble recipe can bring to our lives. From the comforting scent that filled my kitchen to the delightful taste that lingered on my palate, this Tea Loaf has become a staple in my baking repertoire.

Personal Experience:

There’s a unique joy in preparing a recipe that transcends geographical boundaries. As a tea enthusiast, every sip and every bite of this Tea Loaf feels like a cozy hug from home. The night-before ritual, the anticipation as it bakes, and the patience to let the flavors meld make this not just a recipe but a cherished tradition in my household.

So, whether you’re sharing it with friends over afternoon tea or enjoying a quiet moment by yourself, I hope this Tea Loaf brings you the same warmth and joy it has brought me.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use different types of tea for soaking the fruit? Certainly! While a strong black tea is recommended, feel free to experiment with your favorite blends for a unique twist.

Q2: Can I substitute self-raising flour with plain/all-purpose flour? Absolutely! Just add 2 tsp of baking powder and a pinch of salt to achieve the same leavening effect.

Q3: Can I freeze Tea Loaf for later? Certainly! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Q4: How long can I store Tea Loaf? It stays fresh for up to a week if stored in a cool, dry place. However, the flavors tend to deepen with time, making it even more delightful.

Q5: Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit? While the dried fruit imparts a rich flavor, you can experiment with fresh fruit. Adjust the quantity and be mindful of the moisture content.

This Tea Loaf has brought joy to my teatime, and I hope it becomes a cherished part of yours. Happy baking and sipping!

Hey there! I’m Christine, a nutritionist on a mission to make healthy eating fun, delicious, and totally doable for everyone. So, let me give you a peek into my world and how I ended up here.

Growing up, I wasn’t exactly a kitchen whiz. Sure, I knew the basics of eating healthy, but cooking? That was a whole different story. It wasn’t until I started my journey as a nutritionist that I truly began to appreciate the magic of food.

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