Step 1

Place the dried fruit in a large mixing bowl and pour in the tea. Stir to combine and leave to soak for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 180℃ (160℃ fan)/350°F/gas mark Line a 900g/2lb loaf tin with baking parchment.

Step 3

Sift the flour and spice into the bowl with the fruit and add the sugar. Add the eggs, then stir until well blended.

Step 4

Spoon into the prepared tin. Bake in the centre of the oven for 1 hour until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Step 5

Allow to cool on the rack for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.