🍰 Never Fail Fruit Cake

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat & Prepare Pan

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2 — Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until creamy and light.

2. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 3 — Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, mix:

   • flour

   • baking powder

   • salt

   • cinnamon

   • nutmeg

2. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 4 — Fold in Fruits and Nuts

1. Gently fold in:

   • walnuts/pecans

   • dates

   • raisins/sultanas

   • candied cherries/mixed peel

2. Stir in orange juice (or brandy) and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.

Step 5 — Bake

1. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.

2. Bake 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

3. Allow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6 — Optional: Soak for Extra Moisture

• Brush with brandy, rum, or orange juice while still warm for added flavor and moisture.

💡 Tips

• For best flavor, wrap in foil and let the cake rest 1–2 days before slicing.

• Store in an airtight container; it keeps moist for up to 2 weeks.

• Mix up your dried fruits depending on your preference or season.