How to Make Tea Loaf Cake: A Simple Recipe for a Beloved Classic

There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of tea loaf cake, enjoyed with a hot cuppa on a quiet afternoon. This humble treat, with its moist crumb and delicate sweetness, has been a staple in kitchens for generations. It’s the kind of cake that evokes warm memories of family gatherings and cozy teatime rituals. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process of creating a delicious tea loaf cake that’s sure to impress.

The Charm of a Simple Tea Loaf

The beauty of a tea loaf cake lies in its simplicity. It’s not overly sweet, relying instead on the subtle flavors of dried fruits, spices, and a hint of tea to create a perfectly balanced treat. It’s the kind of cake that’s just as welcome at a casual gathering as it is at a more formal affair. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of time, you can have a warm, fragrant loaf ready to share with loved ones.

Ingredients for a Perfect Tea Loaf

Here’s what you’ll need to gather to create your own tea loaf masterpiece:

• 200g self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 100g caster sugar
• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 50ml milk
• 2 tablespoons strong black tea, cooled
• 150g mixed dried fruit (sultanas, raisins, cranberries, etc.)
• 1 tablespoon demerara sugar, for sprinkling

Optional ingredients:

• 50g chopped walnuts or pecans
• Zest of 1 orange or lemon

Tips for ingredient substitutions:

• Don’t have self-raising flour? No problem! You can easily make your own by combining 1 cup (150g) all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
• Can’t find buttermilk? A simple substitute is to add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken slightly before using.
• Want to switch up the dried fruits? Feel free to experiment with different combinations like chopped dates, dried apricots, or even crystallized ginger for a bit of zing.

Essential Baking Tools

Before you begin, ensure you have these handy helpers in your kitchen:

• 2lb loaf tin
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Wire rack for cooling

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Your Tea Loaf

1. Prepare your loaf tin: Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy removal later.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Cream together butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This creates air pockets for a lighter texture.
4. Incorporate eggs and liquids: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the milk and cooled tea.
5. Fold in dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake.
6. Add dried fruits: Gently fold in the mixed dried fruit (and nuts, if using).
7. Transfer batter to the tin: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and spread evenly.
8. Sprinkle with demerara sugar: Sprinkle the top of the cake with demerara sugar for a bit of crunch and sweetness.
9. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool completely: Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Baking Success

• Room temperature ingredients are key: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting. This helps them emulsify properly, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, which can make the cake dense and chewy.
• Test for doneness: To check if your cake is baked through, insert a skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, it’s done. If there’s wet batter clinging to it, bake for a few more minutes and test again.

Serving and Enjoying Your Tea Loaf Cake

This versatile cake can be enjoyed in countless ways:

• Classic teatime treat: Slice and serve with a dollop of butter or clotted cream and a steaming cup of tea.
• Breakfast delight: Toast a slice and top with your favorite jam or marmalade.
• Dessert indulgence: Warm a slice slightly and serve with custard or vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.

How to Store Your Tea Loaf Cake

To keep your tea loaf cake moist and fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

FAQs About Making Tea Loaf Cake

Q: Can I use a different type of tea?

A: Absolutely! While black tea is traditional, you can experiment with Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or even fruit-infused teas for a unique flavor twist.

Q: My cake sank in the middle. What went wrong?

A: This could be due to a few factors, such as underbaking, opening the oven door too frequently during baking, or using expired raising agents. Make sure to follow the baking time and temperature guidelines and always use fresh baking powder.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes, tea loaf cake is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, its flavors develop and deepen over time. Bake it a day or two in advance and store it properly to enjoy later.

Ingredients for Tea Loaf Cake

Baking the Tea Loaf

A Taste of Tradition, Made Easy

Baking a tea loaf cake is a rewarding experience that allows you to create a beloved classic in your own kitchen. With its simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and endless serving possibilities, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So why not gather your ingredients and experience the joy of baking a tea loaf cake today? You might even discover a new family tradition in the process.

Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us! Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience making this recipe. And for more delicious homemade treats, browse our collection of [cake recipes](https://familycuisine.net/how-to-make-vassilopita/, https://familycuisine.net/how-to-make-fruit-cake/, https://familycuisine.net/how-to-make-greek-new-years-cake/). Happy baking!