Tea Loaf

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 ml) strong brewed tea (black tea works well)
• 1 cup (200 g) dried mixed fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas)
• 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Brew Tea: Brew a strong cup of tea and let it cool.
3. Soak Fruits: Place the dried mixed fruit in a bowl and pour the brewed tea over it. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes or until the fruit is plump.
4. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked fruit along with any remaining tea, brown sugar, and beaten egg. Mix well.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the tea loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve: Once cooled, slice and serve. It’s delicious on its own or with a spread of butter.