Elegant White Fruit Cake

If you’re looking to add a touch of sophistication to your dessert table, look no further than this Elegant White Fruit Cake recipe. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a stunning and delicious treat. This fruit cake is not your typical dense and dark version; instead, it’s light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of snowy white cake and a bounty of colorful fruits makes it a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering.

**Elegant White Fruit Cake**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup whole milk
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as apricots, cranberries, and golden raisins)
– ½ cup chopped candied ginger
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– ½ cup chopped almonds
– Powdered sugar (for dusting)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prepare**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, ensuring it is well-coated to prevent sticking.

2. **Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. **Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla**: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.

5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

6. **Fold in Fruits and Nuts**: Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits, candied ginger, lemon zest, and chopped almonds until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. **Bake**: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. **Cool and Serve**: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

9. **Slice and Enjoy**: Slice the Elegant White Fruit Cake into wedges and serve on a platter. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it the perfect treat for a cozy afternoon or a sophisticated dessert option at your next gathering.

10. **Storage**: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Indulge in the lightness and elegance of this delightful White Fruit Cake, sure to captivate your taste buds and impress your guests with its beautiful presentation. Enjoy the medley of flavors and textures in every bite, and savor the joy of baking something truly special for yourself and your loved ones.