There’s nothing quite like the warm, cozy feeling of enjoying a slice of homemade cake with a cup of tea. And if you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of a traditional Irish tea cake with the sweetness of dried fruits, then this Irish Tea Fruit Cake recipe is just what you need. This recipe is a wonderful blend of moist cake with a burst of fruity flavors in every bite. Perfect for afternoon tea, gatherings with friends, or just a cozy day at home, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Irish Tea Fruit Cake
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong black tea
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped apricots)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or loaf pan.
2. In a small bowl, soak the mixed dried fruits in the cup of strong black tea for about an hour, allowing the fruits to plump up and absorb the flavors of the tea.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
5. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Stir in the soaked dried fruits along with any remaining tea, lemon zest, and chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your Irish Tea Fruit Cake with a steaming cup of your favorite tea for the ultimate cozy indulgence. This cake also makes a lovely gift or a delicious addition to any tea party or brunch spread. The blend of tea-infused fruit flavors combined with the warm spices is sure to win over anyone who takes a bite. So, next time you’re craving a comforting treat, whip up this delightful Irish Tea Fruit Cake and savor the cozy flavors of Ireland in every slice. With its moist texture, fruity sweetness, and rich aroma, this cake is bound to become a treasured recipe in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!
