Fruit
1 1/2 cups diced dried pineapple
1 1/2 cups raisins, golden or regular
1 cup (4 1/2 ounces) diced dried apricots
1 1/2 cups chopped dates
heaping 1 cup candied red cherries, plus additional for decoration, if desired
1/3 cup diced crystallized ginger, optional
3/4 cup rum, brandy, apple juice, or cranberry juice
Batter
1 cup (16 tablespoons) unsalted butter
2 cups (15 ounces) dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking powder
4 large eggs
3 cups King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
2 tablespoons cocoa, black cocoa preferred; optional, for color
1/4 cup golden syrup, boiled cider, or dark corn syrup
1/2 cup apple juice, cranberry juice or water
2 cups chopped, toasted nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts)