Best Boiled Fruitcake

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter
• 2 cups white sugar
• 5 eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped dried fruit (such as apricots, raisins, and dates)
• 1 cup chopped candied fruit (such as cherries and pineapple)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts and pecans)
• 2 tablespoons brandy
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons water

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the flour, baking powder and salt. Mix in the dried fruit, candied fruit and nuts. Stir in the brandy, orange juice, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and ginger. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the 2 tablespoons of sugar and the water; stir until the sugar is dissolved. Brush the syrup over the cake.
4. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool before serving.

Interesting Facts

• This boiled fruitcake is a traditional dessert in many parts of the world, especially during the holidays.
• Boiled fruitcake has a much longer shelf life than other cakes, making it a great choice to give as gifts.
• The boiling process helps to keep the cake moist and give it a unique texture.