Fans of The Great British Bake Off might remember Prue Leith’s epic Malt Loaf. Our friend, James Collier, shares his interpretation of this British holiday and tea time classic.
1/4cupmalt extract *1/4 cup prune purée could be substituted for the malt extract
2TBSPblackstrap molasses
1/2cuplight brown sugar
1 3/4cupsall-purpose flour
1TBSPbaking powder (bicarb)
2eggsbeaten
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 325° F (160C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
Place the teabag in a large mug or Pyrex bowl and steep in the hot water for 5 minutes, then discard the bag.
Add the brewed tea, raisins, and chopped prunes to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with cling wrap, piercing it with a few holes to allow steam to release. Microwave at full power for 4 minutes, then remove the cling wrap and stir in the baking soda. Let the bowl sit on a counter for 10 minutes.
Combine the prune puree, malt extract (if using), molasses, and brown sugar in a small pan, heating on low and stirring continuously until the sugar has dissolved. Remove the pan from the heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
Sift the flour and baking powder into a large bowl. Create a well in the center, then pour in the cooled prune purée and the tea-soaked fruit, along with any remaining soaking liquid. Fold gently to combine the ingredients. Add the beaten eggs, and continue stirring gently until evenly mixed.
Pour the mixture into the lined loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, until a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the loaf to cool completely in the pan.
Once cool, slice to serve, or wrap in baking paper and let sit for 1-2 days to continue developing flavor!
Notes
Prune Puree*
Prep time: 5 minutes | Yield: 1 cup (250 ml)
16 ounces (450g) pitted California prunes
1/2 cup (125ml) hot water
Combine the prunes and water in a blender. Pulse to combine, then blend until smooth, pourable consistency forms, scraping the sides if necessary.Store the purée in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 weeks.
Love Prue Leith’s Malt Loaf? Be sure to try our Incredible Pecan Sticky Buns! Both recipes are full of rich flavors enhanced by the natural sweetness of California Prunes.