Tray-bake Christmas cake was much cheaper to make than traditional style and took 25mins in Oven. 

You’ll need a lined 12 ¾ x 9 ¼ inch tray.

Soak in boiling water  a large mug-full of your chosen dried fruit, I used sultanas (for about ten minutes, strain)  then have ready six to eight prunes chopped smallish (do not soak these.)

Leave  7  3/4oz of butter out to soften ready to cream with same amount of soft dark brown sugar.

Add finely grated rind of one small Orange or two Satsumas.

3 Free range eggs, adding one at a time after cracking open into a mug (checking alls well with it by sniffing and appearance) then whisk lightly.  

• Eggs that float at the surface are bad and should not be consumed.

Measure 4 oz of plain flour and 2 oz of Self-raising, add ¼ teaspoon Bicarb and ½ teaspoon Baking powder.  Sift half dry ingredients into creamed butter, sugar and egg mixture, then add 1 teaspoon of Mixed Spices, ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon ginger.  Add half fruit.

Now I put the Oven on to Gas 5.

Add remaining flour, the mixture should not fall off spoon  or beaters (whichever your using.)  Add remaining fruit and make sure well turned-in.

Before going into Oven  I scattered Flaked Almonds, then turn down to Gas 2 ½  for 25mins.

You’ll know it’s ready when the centre bounces back on touch ....Ouch!  or use a metal skewer which should come out clean.  Leave to cool if you can and slice into finger oblongs or desired size.  This can be used as a warm dessert with vanilla custard or cream.