INGREDIENTS:
1 cup mixed dried fruits (e.g., raisins, sultanas, currants, chopped dates, and dried cherries)
1/2 cup orange juice (or apple juice)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/4 cup chopped candied peel (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Soak the Fruits:In a small bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and orange juice. Let them soak for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
Prepare the Air Fryer:Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes.
Line a 6-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Make the Batter:In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Stir in the soaked fruits along with any remaining juice, chopped nuts, and candied peel if using.
Bake the Cake:Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Place the cake pan in the air fryer basket.
Air fry the cake at 320°F (160°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:Remove the cake from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.