Step 1: Prepare the Dried Fruits
Begin by chopping any large dried fruits, such as apricots or cherries, into small, bite-sized pieces. Toss the mixed dried fruits with 1 tablespoon of flour in a small bowl to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the cake. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix just until combined.
Step 3: Incorporate the Dried Fruits
Gently fold the flour-coated dried fruits into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If the top of the cake starts to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cake out of the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust the top of the cooled cake with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
