Dark Old English Fruitcake

A rich, moist fruitcake filled with dried fruits, nuts, and warming spices — perfect for the holidays!

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar

4 large eggs

2 cups mixed dried fruit (such as currants, raisins, and sultanas)

1/2 cup chopped candied ginger (optional, for extra flavor)

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup dark rum or orange juice (for soaking the fruit)

1/2 cup dark molasses or treacle (for a richer flavor)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped glacé cherries (optional)

Instructions: