Craving a deliciously moist and flavorful fruit cake that will have your taste buds singing with joy? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Mrs. Willis Fruit Cake. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply treating yourself to a slice of sweetness, this classic dessert will become a beloved favorite in no time. Packed with a medley of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, this fruit cake is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
**Mrs. Willis Fruit Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1 cup chopped dried figs
– 1 cup raisins
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped apricots, figs, raisins, cranberries, and nuts. Toss the mixture together until well combined and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the fruit and nut mixture until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. If desired, stir in the brandy or rum for a touch of extra flavor.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
10. Bake the fruit cake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Indulge in a slice of this luscious Mrs. Willis Fruit Cake with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The rich blend of fruits, nuts, and aromatic spices will transport you to a place of comfort and warmth with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying your own sweet tooth, this fruit cake is the perfect addition to any occasion. Enjoy the process of baking and savoring this delightful dessert that is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
