Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups sugar
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 32 oz mixed dried fruit
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup orange juice
- ¼ cup softened butter
- ¼ cup molasses
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and line a loaf or tube pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in dried fruit and pecans until coated.
- Add eggs, orange juice, butter, and molasses — mix until well combined.
- Pour into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 1½ to 2 hours, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely before slicing — the flavors deepen as it rests!
Tips:
- Wrap in wax paper or foil and let it sit a few days before serving for that old-fashioned mellow flavor.
- Keeps beautifully for weeks in a cool, dry place.
- Optional: soak your fruit in a splash of brandy or apple juice overnight for extra richness. 🍷
One bite and you’ll swear it came straight from Grandma’s holiday kitchen.
