Brandy Spiked Fruit Loaf

Introduction:
During the festive season in the United Kingdom, nothing quite spells Christmas like the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the house. One such delightful creation that encapsulates the holiday spirit is the Brandy Spiked Fruit Loaf. This rich and moist loaf is packed with a medley of dried fruits and nuts, all infused with a generous splash of brandy. It’s a perfect slice to enjoy with a cup of tea or a glass of mulled wine by the fire, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere in your home.

Brandy Spiked Fruit Loaf

Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, sultanas, and chopped apricots)
– 1/2 cup mixed candied peel
– 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (such as almonds and walnuts)
– 1/2 cup brandy
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, candied peel, and chopped nuts. Pour the brandy over the mixture, ensuring that all the fruits and nuts are coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the fruits to plump up.

2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

3. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

5. Fold in the soaked fruit and nut mixture into the batter until evenly distributed. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Once baked, remove the fruit loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can brush the top of the loaf with a little more brandy while it’s still warm to enhance the flavor.

Slice the Brandy Spiked Fruit Loaf and serve it slightly warm or at room temperature. This festive treat is perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a thoughtful homemade gift during the holiday season. Enjoy the rich flavors and cozy comforts of this delightful Christmas bake!