Christmas Fruit Cake – Rich, Moist & Loaded with Fruit and Nuts 🎄

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits and raisins
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• ½ cup candied cherries
• ½ cup butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• A pinch of salt
• Whole almonds and extra cherries for decoration

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line a round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk.
6. Fold in the dried fruits, raisins, chopped walnuts, and candied cherries.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and decorate the top with almonds and extra cherries.
8. Bake for 60–75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tip: For extra flavor and moisture, soak the dried fruits in orange juice overnight before baking.

Enjoy this delicious homemade Christmas fruit cake with a cup of tea or coffee! ❤️