West Cumberland Tea Bread

May 08, 2023May 8, 20230 16

A classic British tea bread with a fruity and aromatic twist

by The Chefin Baking

Prep

40 min

Cook

60 min

Ready In

1 hour 40 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

311

Sugar

34g

Fat

West Cumberland Tea Bread is a traditional tea time treat that hails from the county of Cumbria in northwest England. It is thought to have been created as a way to use up leftover tea and stale bread, and has since become a beloved classic throughout the UK. The bread is packed with mixed dried fruit, which gives it a sweet and tangy flavor. The mixed spice, a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves, adds an aromatic twist to the bread. Perfect toasted and slathered with butter or jam, it is a must-try for any fan of classic British baking.

Instructions

1.	Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a loaf pan.
2.	Steep the tea and pour it over the dried fruit in a large bowl. Let soak for 30 minutes.
3.	In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, mixed spice, and salt.
4.	Beat the egg in a separate bowl and mix in the brown sugar.
5.	Add the egg mixture to the large bowl of soaked dried fruit and mix well.
6.	Fold in the dry ingredients until fully combined.
7.	Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
8.	Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.

PROS

West Cumberland Tea Bread is a timeless classic that is perfect for breakfast, tea time, or even as a sweet snack.

The recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few ingredients.

Mixed dried fruit gives the bread a sweet and tangy flavor, while the mixed spice adds an aromatic twist.

CONS

The bread is quite high in sugar and carbohydrates, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.

As with any baked good, it is best not to overindulge in one sitting.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While West Cumberland Tea Bread is not a health food, it does contain some nutritional benefits.
The mixed dried fruit in the bread is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
The tea used to soak the fruit is also a source of antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

	12 fluid oz tea
	12 ounces mixed dried fruit
	10 ounces self raising flour ( or plain flour and 1 teaspoon baking powder )
	1 teaspoon mixed spice
	1 pinch salt
	1 egg
	4 ounces light brown sugar