Ingredients

  • 2 cups mixed dried fruits
  • 1 cup raisins
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup chopped dates
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ½ cup water
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
  • 1 tbsp orange zest

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine dried fruits, raisins, cranberries, dates, brown sugar, butter, orange juice, and water.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  3. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
  5. In another bowl, beat the eggs with vanilla extract and orange zest.
  6. Add the cooled fruit mixture to the egg mixture and stir well.
  7. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until combined. Add chopped walnuts if desired.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

Slice and serve with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. You can also dust the top with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

Tips

  • Soak dried fruits in orange juice overnight for extra moisture and flavor.
  • Cover the cake loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  • Store in an airtight container to keep it moist and delicious.
  • For a traditional holiday flavor, prepare the cake a day ahead.