Easy Christmas Cake

1. Prepare the Fruit Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the dried cranberries, glace cherries, mixed dried fruit, butter, orange juice and zest, brown sugar, lemon zest, and all but 4 tbsp of apple juice. Allow the mixture to simmer until it begins to bubble slightly, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Mix the Batter: Once the fruit mixture has cooled, stir in the eggs and ground almonds until well combined. Add the baking powder, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, cloves, and flour. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Reserve the remaining 4 tbsp of apple juice for later use.
4. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even distribution. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
5. Adjust Temperature and Continue Baking: Reduce the oven temperature to 275°F (135°C) and bake for an additional 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If the top of the cake begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
6. Infuse with Apple Juice: While the cake is still warm, use a toothpick or skewer to poke 10-12 holes in the top of the cake. Pour the reserved 4 tbsp of apple juice evenly over the top of the cake to infuse it with extra moisture and flavor.
7. Cool and Store: Allow the cake to cool completely in the springform pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, carefully remove the cake from the pan and store it in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. This helps to preserve its freshness and flavor.
8. Maintain Moisture: To keep your Easy Christmas Cake moist and flavorful, continue to feed it weekly with 1-2 tbsp of apple juice poured over the top. This simple step ensures that each slice remains as delicious as the first day you baked it.

Nutrition Information (per serving):