Dry Fruit Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

1. Dried Fruits – 1 cup (a mix of raisins, dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or dates)
2. Nuts – 1/2 cup (chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
3. All-Purpose Flour – 1 and 1/2 cups
4. Baking Powder – 1 tsp
5. Cinnamon Powder – 1/2 tsp
6. Salt – a pinch
7. Butter – 1/2 cup (at room temperature)
8. Brown Sugar – 3/4 cup
9. Eggs – 2 large
10. Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp
11. Milk – 1/2 cup (or orange juice for extra flavor)

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dried Fruits

1. Soak the Fruits (Optional): For extra moistness, soak the dried fruits in a little warm water or orange juice for 15-30 minutes. Drain and pat dry before using.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon powder, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the chopped nuts to the flour mixture, coating them so they mix better in the batter.

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Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

1. Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet mixture, alternating with milk (or orange juice) to create a smooth batter.
2. Gently fold in the dried fruits until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Prepare to Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and line a loaf pan or a round cake pan with parchment paper.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

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Step 6: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

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Tips for the Perfect Dry Fruit Cake:

• Adjust Fruit and Nut Choices: Feel free to swap or add more dried fruits and nuts, like figs, cashews, or pistachios.
• Store Well: This cake stays fresh for a few days in an airtight container. For longer storage, wrap it in foil and refrigerate.
• Enhance Flavor: A dash of nutmeg or ginger powder adds warmth to the flavor.

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Serving Suggestions:

Serve your dry fruit cake plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar. This rich cake pairs wonderfully with tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy your homemade dry fruit cake!

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