Are you looking for a simple tea loaf recipe? Mary Berry Tea Loaf Recipe is perfect for beginners. This classic British cake is moist and delicious.

You only need basic ingredients and minimal effort. The Mary Berry tea loaf recipe uses dried fruit soaked in tea. It creates a wonderfully soft texture.

No butter or eggs needed in this version! It’s an economical treat for afternoon tea. Let me show you how to make Mary Berry tea loaf at home. This recipe will become your new favorite.

When I First Introduced to Mary Berry Tea Loaf

I discovered this recipe five years ago. My grandmother shared it during a family visit. She learned it from a cooking show. The simplicity amazed me immediately.

I baked it that same weekend. The smell filled my entire kitchen. Everyone loved the moist, fruity flavor. Since then, I make it monthly.

It’s my go-to recipe for guests. The Mary Berry tea loaf never disappoints anyone.

Equipment List

2lb loaf tin
Parchment paper
Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon
Kettle
Cooling rack

Ingredients You Need for Mary Berry Tea Loaf

300g mixed dried fruit
300ml hot strong tea
225g self-raising flour
100g soft brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon mixed spice

Step-by-Step Guide

Place dried fruit in a bowl.
Pour hot tea over the fruit.
Stir everything together gently.
Cover and leave overnight.
This softens the fruit beautifully.
Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F).
Line your loaf tin with parchment.
Grease it lightly with butter.
This prevents sticking later.
Add flour to the soaked fruit.
Stir in sugar and mixed spice.
Beat the egg in a cup.
Pour egg into the mixture.
Mix everything until just combined.
Pour batter into prepared tin.
Smooth the top with a spoon.
Bake for 90 minutes.
Check with a skewer inserted centrally.
It should come out clean.
Remove from oven carefully.
Let it cool for 10 minutes.
Turn out onto a cooling rack.
Slice when completely cool.

Tips to Make the Best Mary Berry Tea Loaf

Use strong breakfast tea for soaking.
Earl Grey adds a lovely flavor.
Don’t skip the overnight soaking step.
It makes the loaf extra moist.
Check after 80 minutes of baking.
Ovens vary in temperature significantly.
Wrap cooled loaf in foil tightly.
It stays fresh for a week.
Slice thinly and butter generously.
Toast slices for extra deliciousness.

FAQs about Mary Berry Tea Loaf

Q: Can I use different dried fruits?

A: Yes, absolutely! Use raisins, sultanas, or chopped dates. Mix your favorites together for variety.

Q: Do I need to add butter?

A: No butter is required. The tea keeps it moist. Add butter when serving if desired.

Q: How long does it keep?

A: It stays fresh for one week. Store wrapped in foil. Keep at room temperature always.

Q: Can I freeze this loaf?

A: Yes, it freezes wonderfully well. Wrap tightly in cling film. Thaw at room temperature overnight.

Q: What tea works best?

A: Strong black tea is ideal. English Breakfast works perfectly. Earl Grey adds nice flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Mary Berry tea loaf recipe is truly foolproof. It’s perfect for beginner bakers everywhere. You don’t need fancy ingredients at all.

The ingredients for Mary Berry tea loaf are affordable. This cake improves after a day or two. Serve it at afternoon tea parties.

Your friends will request the recipe immediately. Try this how to make Mary Berry tea loaf guide today. You won’t regret baking this classic treat. Happy baking, and enjoy every slice!

More Amazing Recipes