This delicious fruit cake definitely has just the right mix of nuts and fruit to make it a favorite in the house.

Ingredients: (16 servings)

• 3 cups whole red and green candied cherries
• 3 cups diced candied pineapple
• 450 g/1 lb shelled walnuts
• 280 g/10 oz golden raisins
• 1 cup shortening
• 1 cup sugar
• 5 eggs
• 4 tablespoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

Method:

Using a large bowl, combine the cherries, pineapple, walnuts and raisins; set aside. In another large bowl, cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. combine the flour, baking powder and salt. Add to creamed mixture and mix well. Pour over fruit mixture and stir to coat.

Transfer to a greased and floured 10 inch tube pan. Bake at 150ºC/300ºF for 2 hours or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack to cool completely.

Wrap tightly and store in a cool place. Slice with a serrated knife and bring to room temperature before serving.