Mary Berry Earl Grey Tea Loaf Recipe

The Mary Berry Earl Grey Tea Loaf Recipe is a delightful treat for any tea lover. I bake it when I want something light, fragrant and comforting. The subtle taste of Earl Grey makes the cake feel special and elegant.

If you want to learn how to make Mary Berry Earl Grey Tea Loaf, this guide is perfect. I will share my simple method and the ingredients for Mary Berry Earl Grey Tea Loaf that always work perfectly.

Why I Love Making This Earl Grey Tea Loaf

I first tried this loaf on a quiet afternoon. The kettle was boiling, and I had a few friends visiting. The aroma of bergamot filled the kitchen. The cake looked beautiful on the table.

Everyone loved the delicate tea flavor. It felt like a fancy bakery cake but homemade. Now, I bake it whenever I want a little treat with tea.

Equipment List

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 8-inch loaf tin
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack
• Small saucepan (for infusing tea)

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Mary Berry Earl Grey Tea Loaf
• Servings: 8 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Course: Dessert / Tea Cake
• Cuisine: British
• Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Mary Berry Earl Grey Tea Loaf

• 125 g unsalted butter
• 125 g caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 125 g self-raising flour
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 Earl Grey tea bags
• Zest of 1 orange
• Optional: Icing sugar for dusting

For the Tea Syrup

• 50 ml strong brewed Earl Grey tea
• 25 g caster sugar

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven

Set oven to 180°C (350°F). Line an 8-inch loaf tin with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Infuse the Milk

Heat milk gently. Add tea bags. Let it infuse for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags and cool.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. It should look pale and soft.

4. Add Eggs

Beat in eggs one at a time. Mix slowly to keep batter smooth and light.

5. Fold in Flour

Sift flour and fold it gently into the mixture. Do not overmix to keep the cake soft.

6. Add Tea Milk and Zest

Add infused milk and orange zest. Stir gently until evenly combined.

7. Pour Batter into Tin

Transfer batter into prepared loaf tin. Smooth the top with a spatula.

8. Bake the Loaf

Bake for 45 minutes. Insert a skewer to check; it should come out clean.

9. Make Tea Syrup

While baking, heat sugar and tea in a small pan. Stir until sugar dissolves.

10. Brush Loaf

Remove cake from oven. Brush with tea syrup while still warm. Let it cool in tin.

11. Serve

Remove from tin. Dust lightly with icing sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy with tea.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use loose Earl Grey leaves for stronger flavor
• Add a tablespoon of orange juice to tea syrup
• Mix in a few chocolate chips for a twist
• Substitute orange zest with lemon zest if preferred
• Store in airtight tin to keep soft longer

History or Fun Fact About the Dish

Earl Grey tea is named after Charles Grey, a British Prime Minister in the 1830s. Tea loaf cakes became popular in English homes during the 20th century. Mary Berry modernized these classics with simple, reliable recipes.

Pairings & Complementary Recipes

Serve with a cup of black or green tea. Pair with clotted cream for extra indulgence. Light fruit preserves also work beautifully. This loaf goes well with fresh berries on the side.

Occasion or Event Ideas

Perfect for afternoon tea or brunch. Bake it for birthdays or casual gatherings. It is also a great homemade gift. Ideal for cozy rainy afternoons at home.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store in airtight container for 3 days at room temperature
• Wrap in foil and freeze up to 1 month
• Reheat slices in microwave for 10 seconds
• Warm in oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5 minutes for fresh taste
• Brush again with tea syrup after reheating for moisture

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280 kcal
Carbohydrates	38 g
Fat	12 g
Protein	5 g
Sugar	18 g

Health Benefits

This tea loaf is light and fragrant. Using real tea adds antioxidants. Eggs provide protein. Moderate sugar keeps it balanced. Homemade baking avoids preservatives. Enjoying small portions adds comfort without guilt.

FAQs about Mary Berry Earl Grey Tea Loaf Recipe

Can I use a different tea instead of Earl Grey?
Yes, you can use chai or green tea. Each tea gives a unique flavor. Adjust sweetness accordingly.

Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Yes, substitute self-raising flour with gluten-free flour. Baking time may change slightly. Check with a skewer.

Is this recipe beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. Steps are simple. Even first-time bakers can make a soft, tasty loaf.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit?
Yes, chopped almonds or sultanas work well. Fold gently into the batter before baking.

How long does it last?
It stays fresh for 3–4 days at room temperature. Freezing extends shelf life up to a month.

Final Thoughts

The Mary Berry Earl Grey Tea Loaf Recipe is elegant, simple and comforting. Learning how to make Mary Berry Earl Grey Tea Loaf is easy.

Keep the ingredients for Mary Berry Earl Grey Tea Loaf ready and you can enjoy this fragrant treat anytime.

Baking this loaf brings warmth, joy and a little luxury to everyday life. It is perfect for tea lovers and a wonderful homemade delight for friends and family.