Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

• Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan or an 8×8-inch square tin with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).

• This step is key to a tender, airy cake texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

• Beat in the vanilla, orange juice, and milk.

• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

• Stir in maple or rum extract for added depth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and all the spices.

• Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet until just combined—don’t overmix.

Step 5: Add Fruits, Nuts & Molasses

• Stir in the molasses (or honey/maple syrup) to enrich the flavor.

• Fold in the cranberries, raisins, candied fruit, and nuts gently to avoid breaking them.

Step 6: Bake

• Pour batter into the prepared pan and tap gently to remove air bubbles.

• Bake for 90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Let the cake cool completely in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

• Slice thick and serve with coffee, tea, or a splash of brandy for extra holiday cheer