Spicy Fruitcake Recipe for a Joyful Christmas

Start by mixing your **dried fruits** and **nuts** in a large bowl. It's best if the dried fruits are chopped into smaller pieces for even distribution throughout the cake. Let this mixture sit aside while you prepare the rest of the batter.

In a separate bowl, combine **butter** and **sugar**. Cream them together until the mixture is **light and fluffy**. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the **eggs one at a time**, mixing well after each addition. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything.

Next, gently fold in the **flour**, **baking powder**, and the **spices** like ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Do not overmix; just combine until everything is incorporated.

Carefully fold the **dried fruit and nuts mixture** into the batter. Ensure they are evenly distributed to create a moist fruitcake. Then, pour the batter into a greased and lined baking pan.

Preheat your oven to **160°C (320°F)** and bake for about **50-60 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close watch during the last few minutes of baking to prevent it from burning. When done, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

In a small bowl, mix the **powdered sugar** with **water** until you reach a smooth consistency. Optionally, you can add the zest of **lemon or orange** to add a refreshing flavor. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to set for a beautiful finish.

Once the glaze has set, slice your **spicy fruitcake** and serve it to your loved ones. This cake is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Enjoy the flavors of the season together!