Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf Recipe

The Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf is a traditional British fruit loaf that’s moist, flavorful, and easy to make. This loaf is packed with dried fruits that are soaked in tea, giving it a deliciously rich taste. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea, whether for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a sweet snack. With a simple method and pantry ingredients, this tea loaf is a comforting classic.

What Is Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf?

Jamie Oliver’s Tea Loaf is a moist fruit loaf made with dried fruits soaked in tea, combined with flour, sugar, eggs, and spices. The soaking process makes the dried fruits plump and juicy, resulting in a flavorful and tender loaf. Traditionally served sliced and buttered, this tea loaf is ideal for any time of day.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry ingredients for a quick bake.
• Moist and Flavorful: Soaked fruits give the loaf a deliciously moist texture.
• Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, tea, or a snack.
• No Mixer Needed: You can easily make this by hand.
• Perfect for Sharing: The loaf can be sliced and served easily for gatherings.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf

To make one tea loaf, gather the following ingredients:

• 150g (1 cup) mixed dried fruits (e.g., raisins, sultanas, currants): Provides sweetness and flavor.
• 150ml (⅔ cup) strong black tea, brewed: Used to soak the dried fruits for added moisture and flavor.
• 100g (½ cup) brown sugar: Adds a rich sweetness and depth to the loaf.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Helps bind the ingredients together.
• 225g (1 ¾ cups) self-raising flour: The base of the loaf, providing structure and rise.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a hint of warm spice.
• Butter (for greasing): To grease the loaf tin.

Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to make Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf:

• Mixing bowls: For combining the ingredients.
• Loaf tin (900g/2lb): To bake the tea loaf.
• Whisk or fork: For mixing the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements.
• Baking parchment or greaseproof paper: To line the loaf tin.
• Spoon or spatula: For transferring the batter to the tin.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf

Step 1: Soak the Dried Fruits

• In a mixing bowl, place the dried fruits.
• Pour the hot brewed tea over the fruits and let them soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible. This will plump up the fruits and add extra moisture to the loaf.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Grease a 900g (2lb) loaf tin with butter and line it with baking parchment.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

• Once the fruits are soaked and plump, stir in the brown sugar and the beaten egg until well combined.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients

• Sift the self-raising flour and cinnamon (if using) into the wet mixture.
• Gently fold the flour into the mixture, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Pour the Batter into the Tin

• Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon.

Step 6: Bake the Tea Loaf

• Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
• If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it with foil halfway through baking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes.
• Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Serve slices of the tea loaf plain or spread with butter for a delicious snack.

What Goes Well with Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf?

Here are a few great pairings for Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf:

• Butter: Spread slices with butter for a classic and simple treat.
• Jam or Marmalade: Add a layer of fruit jam or marmalade for extra sweetness.
• Cheese: Pair with a slice of cheddar for a savory contrast.
• Tea or Coffee: Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon break.
• Clotted Cream: For a more indulgent option, spread clotted cream on the slices.
• Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey adds a touch of extra sweetness.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf

To make sure your Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf turns out perfectly, follow these tips:

• Soak the Fruits Overnight: If time allows, soak the fruits overnight for maximum plumpness and flavor.
• Use Strong Tea: A good-quality strong black tea will add more depth of flavor to the loaf.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the flour to avoid overmixing, which can make the loaf dense.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a skewer into the center of the loaf to ensure it’s fully baked. If it comes out clean, the loaf is done.
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the loaf cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf

Looking to put a spin on the classic tea loaf? Try these variations:

• Nutty Tea Loaf: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter for a crunchy texture.
• Citrus Twist: Mix in the zest of a lemon or orange for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Gluten-Free Tea Loaf: Substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Spiced Tea Loaf: Add mixed spice or nutmeg along with the cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Cherry Tea Loaf: Replace some of the dried fruit with chopped glacé cherries for a sweeter flavor.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf

To keep your tea loaf fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Refrigeration: The tea loaf can be refrigerated for up to 1 week, but bring it to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap the tea loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf

To enjoy your tea loaf warm, follow these reheating tips:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 160°C (325°F) and warm slices for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Microwave individual slices on medium power for 10-15 seconds.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf Healthier?

For a lighter version of this tea loaf, try these simple substitutions:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Replace some or all of the self-raising flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce Sugar: Lower the sugar content by using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Add Seeds: Incorporate flaxseeds or chia seeds into the batter for added nutrition.
• Use Herbal Tea: Substitute black tea with a naturally sweet herbal tea, such as rooibos or chai, for a different flavor.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 20g

FAQs

Can I use different types of tea for Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf?

Yes, you can use various types of tea for this recipe. Black tea is traditional, but you can experiment with flavors like Earl Grey, chai, or even herbal teas like rooibos. Each type of tea will give the loaf a slightly different flavor.

How long should I soak the fruit for tea loaf?

It’s recommended to soak the dried fruit for at least 1 hour to allow them to absorb moisture and become plump. For even better results, soak the fruit overnight to ensure they’re fully hydrated and flavorful.

Can I freeze Jamie Oliver’s Tea Loaf?

Yes, you can freeze the tea loaf. Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the loaf at room temperature before slicing and serving.

Why is my tea loaf dry?

A dry tea loaf may result from overbaking or not soaking the fruit long enough. Make sure to bake until just done and soak the dried fruits for sufficient time to add moisture to the loaf. Adding a bit more tea or reducing the baking time slightly can also help keep it moist.

Final Words

The Jamie Oliver Tea Loaf Recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic British bake. With its moist texture, sweet dried fruits, and rich tea flavor, this loaf is perfect for any occasion.

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