Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking during baking. This ensures the cake comes out easily once it’s done.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Sifting the dry ingredients is a good idea to ensure everything is well-mixed and there are no lumps.
Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of orange juice, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved, and everything is fully incorporated. The oil helps keep the cake moist, while the orange juice adds a lovely citrus flavor to the batter.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. The batter should be thick and smooth.
Add the Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in the 1 cup of mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, and chopped dates) and the 1/4 cup of chopped nuts, if using. The dried fruits add sweetness and texture, while the nuts give a nice crunch. If you prefer a nuttier cake, you can increase the amount of nuts or try different varieties, such as almonds or walnuts.
Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared 8-inch round cake pan. Spread the batter evenly, ensuring there are no air pockets. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so start checking at the 45-minute mark.
Cool the Cake: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This will help it firm up slightly. After 10 minutes, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process allows the flavors to develop and makes the cake easier to slice.
