Cake For Christmas

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, candied peel)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• A pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup milk

For the Christmas Spirit (Optional):

• 1/2 cup brandy or rum (for soaking the fruits)

For the Icing:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Festive decorations (as desired)

Calories per serving (approximate): 300 kcal

Steps:

1. Prepare the Fruits (Optional): If using spirits, soak the mixed dried fruits in brandy or rum a day before baking. This enhances the flavor and moistness of the cake.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a cake pan.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Fold in the soaked fruits and chopped nuts.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 to 1.5 hours or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Cool and Ice: Allow the cake to cool completely. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create icing. Drizzle or spread over the cake, and decorate with festive embellishments.
9. Serve and Celebrate: Slice and savor the joy of Christmas with this delightful cake. Share it with loved ones as a sweet tradition.

Note: Feel free to customize the cake with your favorite holiday flavors and decorations.