Easy fat-free and low in sugar tea loaf

Ingredients:

• 1¼ cups (150g) dried mixed fruit (like raisins, sultanas, chopped dates, or apricots)
• 1 cup (250ml) strong black tea (e.g. Earl Grey or English Breakfast), brewed and cooled
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup (120g) self-raising flour (or use all-purpose flour + 1½ tsp baking powder)
• 1–2 tbsp brown sugar or coconut sugar (optional – can omit for very low sugar)
• ½ tsp cinnamon or mixed spice (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Soak the fruit:
   Place the dried fruit in a bowl and pour over the tea. Cover and let soak overnight (or at least 4 hours) until plump and soft.
2. Preheat oven:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a loaf tin (about 8×4 inches) with parchment paper.
3. Mix ingredients:
   Add the egg to the soaked fruit mixture and stir well. Mix in the flour, sugar (if using), spice, and salt until just combined.
4. Bake:
   Pour into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Cool and serve:
   Allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!