A Classic Welsh Tea Loaf

Welsh Spelt Bara Brith is a moist, spiced fruit loaf. It combines dried fruits, tea infusion, and hearty spelt flour. Perfect for afternoon tea or breakfast. The spelt flour adds a subtle nuttiness and soft crumb. It keeps well and improves in flavour after a day.

Why This Loaf Works

Spelt flour gives a tender texture while holding fruit well. Soaking the fruit in tea enhances sweetness and flavour. The loaf slices easily for sandwiches or snacks. Spices add warmth without overpowering. It’s simple to make and suitable for gifting.

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 50 mins

Total Time 1 hr 10 mins

Cuisine: British

Courses: Dessert, snack

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 12

Estimated Cost: 5

Calories: 240

Best Season: Fall, Winter

Dietary: Vegetarian

Description

Traditional Welsh Bara Brith made with spelt flour and soaked dried fruits. Moist, lightly spiced, and full of flavour, this classic tea loaf is ideal for afternoon tea, breakfast, or gifting. Easy to prepare and keeps well for several days.

Ingredients

Fruit Soak

150 g mixed dried fruit (sultanas, currants, raisins)
150 ml strong black tea (cooled)

Bara Brith Loaf

200 g spelt flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp mixed spice
50 g light brown sugar
1 large egg (beaten)
2 tbsp orange juice or milk
1 tbsp golden syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions

Soak fruit.

1
Place dried fruit in a bowl and pour over cooled tea. Leave to soak for 12 hours or overnight.

Preheat oven.

2
Heat oven to 180°C. Grease and line a 20 cm loaf tin.

Mix dry ingredients.

3
In a bowl, combine spelt flour, baking powder, mixed spice, and sugar.

Combine wet ingredients.

4
Stir egg, orange juice (or milk), and golden syrup into the soaked fruit mixture.

Mix batter.

5
Fold fruit mixture into dry ingredients until combined.

Bake.

6
Pour batter into prepared tin. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until a skewer comes out clean.

Cool.

7
Cool in tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Serve.

8
Slice and enjoy with butter or plain.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12

Amount Per Serving
Calories 240kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 3g5%
Saturated Fat 1g5%
Cholesterol 30mg10%
Sodium 120mg5%
Potassium 180mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Sugars 22g
Protein 4g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes

Use freshly brewed black tea for best flavour.
Letting the fruit soak overnight enhances moistness.
Slice with a serrated knife to prevent crumbling.

Optional Substitutions & Variations

Substitute milk or orange juice for vegan option.
Add chopped nuts for extra texture.
Use maple syrup instead of golden syrup.
Sprinkle the top with sugar before baking for a subtle crust.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store in an airtight tin at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Wrap in foil for gifting.
Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw before slicing.

Keywords: spelt loaf, Welsh Bara Brith, tea bread, fruity spiced cake

Tips & Variations

Soak fruit fully to prevent dryness. Spelt flour may need slightly more liquid in dry climates.

Serving Ideas

Serve with butter or cream cheese.
Slice thick for toast or thin for tea sandwiches.
Pair with a warm cup of tea.

🎯 Conclusion

Welsh Spelt Bara Brith is a classic fruity loaf with gentle spices. It’s moist, soft, and full of flavour.
Easy to prepare and keeps well, perfect for tea or gifting. Bake a loaf and enjoy a taste of traditional Wales at home.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/welsh-spelt-bara-brith/

Valentina

A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!