Yorkshire Tea Loaf
About the Yorkshire Tea Loaf
The Yorkshire Tea Loaf is a classic British recipe deeply rooted in the traditions of North England's Yorkshire county. This delectable loaf, rich with dried fruits, soaked in robust tea, creates a moist, flavorful cake that is perfect for teatime. The origins of the Yorkshire Tea Loaf can be traced back to the 18th century when it was customary to produce cakes with economical ingredients, making it popular among working-class families.
Traditionally enjoyed
with a spread of butter, the loaf pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of tea. It remains a beloved treat today, cherished for its simplicity as well as its rich, comforting flavors, bringing people together over a warm slice during cold English afternoons.
Ingredients
- Strong black tea - 300 ml
- Mixed dried fruits - 300 g
- Brown sugar - 100 g
- Self-raising flour - 225 g
- Egg - 1, beaten
- Butter - for greasing
Preparation Instructions
- Begin by brewing a pot of strong black tea. Allow it to steep for a minimum of 5 minutes to ensure a robust flavor.
- In a large bowl, combine the brewed tea, mixed dried fruits, and brown sugar. Stir well and let the mixture soak overnight. This will allow the flavors to blend thoroughly and ensure your fruits are juicy and plump.
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) and grease a 2 lb loaf tin with butter.
- After soaking, add the self-raising flour and the beaten egg to the fruit mix. Stir the ingredients until well combined. Ensure there are no lumps of flour in the mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the loaf is cooked through.
- Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Yorkshire Tea Loaf sliced, lightly buttered, and accompanied by a freshly brewed cup of tea. It is perfect as an afternoon snack or a simple dessert. You can also enjoy it with your morning coffee for a delightful start to the day. Its sweet, fruit-filled crumb makes for an ideal companion to both creamy butter and a refreshing sip of your favorite brew.
This easy-to-make recipe bridges the gap between the rustic culinary practices of the past and the comforting flavors of the present day. Whether amidst family, friends, or within the solitude of personal reflection, the Yorkshire Tea Loaf is a testament to the enduring charm of traditional English baking.