Deliciously Simple Malt Loaf Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through your home. Malt loaf, with its rich flavor and delightful texture, brings back memories of cozy afternoons spent with loved ones. This easy recipe is not only quick to whip up but also results in a loaf that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Why You’ll Love Malt Loaf

• Fast
• Easy
• Giftable
• Crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your malt loaf:

• 250g mixed dried fruit (such as raisins, sultanas, and currants) – adds sweetness and texture.
• 250ml strong tea (brewed and cooled) – helps soak the dried fruit, enhancing its flavor.
• 250g malt extract – provides that signature malt flavor.
• 100g brown sugar – adds a deep sweetness.
• 300g self-raising flour – gives the loaf its light and fluffy texture.
• 1 tsp baking powder – ensures the loaf rises perfectly.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon – warms up the flavor profile.
• 1 tsp mixed spice – adds a hint of warmth and complexity.
• 2 large eggs – binds the ingredients together.
• 50g chopped walnuts (optional) – adds a delightful crunch.

How to Make Malt Loaf

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease and line a loaf tin with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed dried fruit with the cooled strong tea. Let it soak for at least 1 hour. This step infuses the fruit with flavor, making it even more delicious.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the malt extract, brown sugar, and eggs until well combined. This mixture is the star of your loaf.
4. In another bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and mixed spice. Sifting helps to aerate the flour, giving your loaf a lighter texture.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
6. Fold in the soaked dried fruit and walnuts (if using) gently.
7. Pour the mixture into your prepared loaf tin and smooth the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will be irresistible!
9. Allow the loaf to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Substitutions & Additions

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun swaps and upgrades:

• Try using honey or maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract for a lovely scent.
• Incorporate different nuts or seeds for added texture.
• Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist!

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your malt loaf turns out perfectly:

• Make sure your dried fruit is well-soaked; this helps with moisture and flavor.
• Don’t rush the mixing process. Gently folding in the ingredients keeps your loaf airy.
• If you want to prep ahead, you can soak the dried fruit the night before. Just cover it and let it sit in the fridge.

How to Store Malt Loaf

Once your loaf has cooled, wrap it tightly in cling film or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 4-5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to slice it before freezing, so you can enjoy a piece whenever the craving strikes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit? While fresh fruit adds moisture, it can affect the loaf’s structure. Stick with dried fruit for the best results.

What can I serve with malt loaf? Malt loaf is delicious on its own, but you can spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for an extra treat!

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians? Yes, this malt loaf recipe is completely vegetarian-friendly.

Can I add chocolate to the malt loaf? Absolutely! Chopped dark chocolate or cacao nibs can be a delightful addition.

Now that you know how to make this heartwarming malt loaf, I hope you give it a try! It’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with a cup of tea. For more delicious recipes, check out my easy baking blog or explore sweet treats you will love!

And if you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to follow me on Pinterest!

Malt Loaf

There's something incredibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through your home. Malt loaf, with its rich flavor and delightful texture, brings back memories of cozy afternoons spent with loved ones. This easy recipe is not only quick to whip up but also results in a loaf that's perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 2 hours hrs

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: British

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 250 g Mixed Dried Fruit such as raisins, sultanas, and currants
• 250 ml Strong Tea brewed and cooled
• 250 g Malt Extract
• 100 g Brown Sugar
• 300 g Self-Raising Flour
• 1 tsp Baking Powder
• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1 tsp Mixed Spice
• 2 Large Eggs
• 50 g Chopped Walnuts optional

Equipment

• Loaf Tin
• Mixing Bowls
• Oven

Method

 

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease and line a loaf tin with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the mixed dried fruit with the cooled strong tea. Let it soak for at least 1 hour.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix together the malt extract, brown sugar, and eggs until well combined.
4. Step 4: In another bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and mixed spice.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Step 6: Fold in the soaked dried fruit and walnuts (if using) gently.
7. Step 7: Pour the mixture into your prepared loaf tin and smooth the top.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Step 9: Allow the loaf to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Once your loaf has cooled, wrap it tightly in cling film or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 4-5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months!