Festive Spiced Christmas Cake

This festive spiced Christmas cake combines traditional elements with a creative twist, featuring a rich medley of dried fruits, warming spices, and a hint of orange zest. The cake is moist and dense, perfect for the holiday season, and can be enjoyed plain or adorned with a light glaze. It's a delightful treat that respects traditional culinary principles while adding a touch of creativity.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, and dried apricots)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds or walnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup brandy or apple juice (for soaking fruits)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits with the brandy or apple juice and let them soak for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the orange juice. Mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the soaked dried fruits, orange zest, and nuts if using.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.