"Deliciously Moist Tea Loaf Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfecting Your Baking Skills"

#### Tea Loaf RecipeIf you're looking for a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your afternoon tea, look no further than this classic tea loaf recipe……

#### Tea Loaf Recipe

If you're looking for a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your afternoon tea, look no further than this classic tea loaf recipe. A tea loaf is a wonderfully moist, flavorful cake that is often made with dried fruits and spices, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a tea party, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, this recipe is sure to impress.

#### Ingredients

To create your own tea loaf, you will need the following ingredients:

- 250g mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, sultanas, and currants)

- 200ml strong brewed tea (Earl Grey or English Breakfast works well)

- 100g unsalted butter, softened

- 150g granulated sugar

- 2 large eggs

- 250g all-purpose flour

- 1 tsp baking powder

- 1 tsp ground cinnamon

- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

- A pinch of salt

- Optional: Zest of one lemon or orange for added flavor

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Dried Fruits**: Begin by soaking the mixed dried fruits in the brewed tea for at least an hour, or ideally overnight. This step is crucial as it plumps up the fruits, enhancing their flavor and moisture content.

2. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and grease a loaf tin or line it with baking parchment for easy removal.

3. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, resulting in a lighter loaf.

4. **Add the Eggs**: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. If you’re using citrus zest, add it at this stage.

5. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and spices throughout the batter.

6. **Mix Everything Together**: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter and egg mixture. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until you see no dry flour.

7. **Incorporate the Soaked Fruits**: Finally, fold in the soaked dried fruits along with any remaining tea. This will add moisture and flavor to your loaf.

8. **Bake**: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. **Cool and Serve**: Once baked, allow the tea loaf to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with butter or enjoy it plain with a cup of tea.

#### Tips for the Perfect Tea Loaf

- **Customization**: Feel free to customize your tea loaf by using different types of dried fruits or adding nuts for extra texture.

- **Storage**: Store your tea loaf in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can also be frozen for later enjoyment.

- **Serving Suggestions**: Serve your tea loaf with a dollop of clotted cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of indulgence.

This tea loaf recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a wonderful way to practice your baking skills. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!