Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, chopped dates, currants, dried cherries)
- ½ cup candied mixed peel or chopped glace cherries
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp allspice
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp molasses or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup orange juice or apple juice
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a loaf pan or a round 8-inch cake pan with parchment paper. - Soak the Fruits (Optional but recommended)
Combine dried fruits, candied peel, and juice in a bowl. Let them soak for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice). - Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by molasses and vanilla. - Combine Everything
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients. Then fold in the soaked fruits (drain excess juice if needed), nuts, and orange zest. - Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 60–70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. - Cool and Serve
Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy once cooled — or wrap and let it rest for a day for even better flavor!
Would you like a version with rum-soaked fruit for a more traditional holiday version?