how to make ghana tea bread recipe

Natasha willow

2 min read

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27-12-2024

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Ghanaian tea bread is a beloved classic, perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a comforting snack. This moist, subtly sweet bread is easy to make and incredibly versatile. Let's dive into this simple yet rewarding recipe!

What You'll Need: Ingredients for Ghanaian Tea Bread

This recipe yields a loaf approximately 9x5 inches.

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (you can substitute up to half with whole wheat flour for added fiber)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm spice note)
• ½ cup granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup strong brewed tea (cooled – black tea is traditional, but you can experiment!)
• ½ cup milk (whole milk is recommended, but you can use others)

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Your Ghanaian Tea Bread

1. Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures a clean release.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined to prevent lumps.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step. This incorporates air, which contributes to the bread’s lightness.

4. Add Wet Ingredients:

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the cooled tea and milk, alternating with the dry ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry. Mix until just combined; don't overmix. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread.

5. Pour and Bake:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Serve:

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

Tips for the Perfect Ghanaian Tea Bread

• Use good quality tea: The flavor of the tea will subtly infuse the bread, so choose a tea you enjoy.
• Don't overmix: Overmixing leads to a tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Get creative with additions: Consider adding raisins, currants, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of tea?

A: Yes! Experiment with different teas, such as Earl Grey, chamomile, or even herbal infusions. The flavor will be subtly different, but still delicious.

Q: What if my bread is too dry?

A: Next time, try adding a tablespoon or two more of milk to the batter.

Q: Can I make this bread in a different pan size?

A: Yes, but you may need to adjust the baking time. A smaller pan will require less baking time, and a larger pan will require more.

This Ghanaian tea bread recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, it's a perfect recipe for bakers of all skill levels. Enjoy!