Go Back
Traditional Irish Tea Bread Recipe

Irish Tea Bread

A comforting loaf that pairs beautifully with tea, featuring dried fruit for sweetness and a satisfying texture.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Irish
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour Sifted before measurement
  • 1 tsp Baking powder For leavening
  • 1/2 tsp Baking soda For leavening
  • 1 tsp Salt Enhances flavor
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup Strong brewed black tea Helps to moisten the bread
  • 3/4 cup Brown sugar Adds sweetness and moisture
  • 1/2 cup Melted butter Gives richness
Fruits
  • 1 cup Mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants) Adds sweetness and texture

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix the brewed tea, brown sugar, and melted butter until the sugar is dissolved.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
  5. Fold in the dried fruit until evenly distributed.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  2. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooling
  1. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Serve slices warm with butter alongside tea or coffee. Can be stored in an airtight container to maintain moisture.