Festive Christmas Fruitcake Recipe

candied cherries
dark raisins
pitted dates, chopped
golden raisins
brandy
butter, softened
granulated sugar
eggs
orange zest
lemon zest
molasses
flour
salt
baking powder
allspice
toasted almonds, chopped
toasted hazelnuts, chopped

nonstick pan spray

Christmas Fruitcake Directions

Preheat oven, spray pan with spray and line with parchment or waxed paper.

Rinse cherries and drain on paper towels.
Combine in a large bowl the raisins, chopped dates, golden raisins and drained cherries.
Pour brandy over fruit and let set overnight.
In a large mixing bowl cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time beating well after each addition.
Add the orange and lemon zest.
Stir in the molasses.
Add the flour, salt, baking powder and allspice.
Mix well.
Add the brandied fruit, almonds and hazelnuts.
Gently mix together to blend.
Spoon the mixture into prepared pan.
Bake for the allotted time or until toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and cool on wire rack.
Store the cake in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Can frost Christmas fruitcake or serve plain.

Recipe Serves: 12 – 16