Ingredients
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• 1 cup (240g) unsalted butter or margarine (softened)
• 4 large eggs
• 1½ cups (250g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, cherries, etc.)
• ¼ cup (60ml) orange juice or rum
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp mixed spice or cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon or orange zest
Instructions
Soak the mixed dried fruits in orange juice or rum for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Cream butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract and zest.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the soaked fruits (including any remaining juice).
Mix gently until well combined.
Pour the batter into a greased and lined loaf pan.
Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 60–70 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.
For extra moisture and shine, brush the warm cake with a little rum or fruit syrup.