Delia Fruit Loaf Recipe

Delve into the heartwarming world of Delia Smith's Very Fruity Irish Tea Cake, a recipe that epitomizes the comfort and nostalgia of homemade baking. This delightful fruit loaf marries simplicity with flavor, making it a perfect treat for tea time or a cozy breakfast.

Brief Description of the Recipe

The Very Fruity Irish Tea Cake, part of Delia Smith's illustrious collection, is a testament to the timeless appeal of fruit cakes. It's designed to be dense with dried fruits, achieving a moist texture that makes it incredibly satisfying, especially when paired with a hot cup of tea.

Cultural or Historical Context

Rooted in the tradition of British baking, this cake draws inspiration from the Irish tea cake's rich heritage, where soaking dried fruits in tea infuses them with flavor and tenderness, creating a cake that's both easy to make and delightful to eat.

Ingredients List

• For Pre-soaking:
  • Raisins, currants, sultanas (110g each)
  • Chopped candied peel (50g)
  • Demerara sugar (50g)
  • Hot tea (150ml)
• For the Cake:
  • Pecan nuts (50g)
  • Large egg (1)
  • Self-raising flour (225g)
  • Milk (1-2 tablespoons)

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin the preparation the night before by soaking the dried fruits and candied peel in hot tea mixed with demerara sugar.
2. Preheat your oven and toast the pecan nuts for a few minutes until golden.
3. Mix the soaked fruits with a beaten egg, sift in the flour, add the toasted nuts, and adjust the consistency with milk if necessary.
4. Bake in a pre-lined tin until springy to the touch, then cool on a wire rack.

Storage and Reheating

This cake stores well in an airtight container, retaining its moistness and flavor. It can be enjoyed fresh, but it's also excellent toasted, with or without butter, offering a versatile option for breakfast or a snack.

Nutritional Information

The nutritional content mainly comes from the dried fruits and nuts, providing a good source of fiber and energy. The cake is relatively low in fat, especially if enjoyed without butter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use different types of tea for soaking the fruits? Yes, the type of tea can vary according to preference. Each type lends a unique flavor to the cake.
• How long does the cake keep? When stored properly in an airtight container, the cake can last for several days, becoming denser and more flavorful over time.

Final thoughts on this delightful Very Fruity Irish Tea Cake include savoring it as is or enhancing its rich flavors with a smear of butter. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a cherished recipe for both novice bakers and seasoned cooks alike. For more detailed instructions and insights, visit Delia Online​​​​​​.