Dark cocoa, brandied fruit and nuts combine to make this delicious slice. The fruit gives moisture and the nuts give a lovely crunch. The orange zest and brandy used to soak the fruit adds flavour.

It takes only a little preparation and is quick and easy to make at any time.

This slice is perfect for a snack or with your favourite coffee or tea.

Chocolate, Fruit and Nut Slice

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Sugar
• 125g Butter, at room temperature
• 2 Eggs
• 1/2 cup Plain flour
• 3 Tblsp Dark Cocoa
• 1/3 cup sultanas
• 1/3 cup raisins
• 2 Tblsp dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 3 Tblsp of Brandy
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1/2 tsp salt

Method:

1. Pre heat oven to 170ºC
2. Line a 29cm x 19cm slice tray with baking paper
3. In a small saucepan soak the sultanas, raisins and cranberries in the brandy, topping up with water till the fruit is fully covered
4. Let the fruit steep for 10 to 15 minutes, and then strain the fruit and discard the liquid
5. Sift the dry ingredients in a separate bowl
6. Using a food processor, (or a hand or stand beater) cream the butter and sugar and vanilla till pale and the sugar is dissolved
7. Add the eggs one at a time through the feeder while processing till thoroughly combined
8. Gradually add the sifted flour, cocoa and salt mix, a few tablespoons at a time to the creamed mixture processing till it is all combined and smooth
9. Spoon the chocolate mixture into a large bowl
10. Stir through the plumped sultanas, raisins, cranberries and nut mix and the orange zest
11. Spoon into the prepared baking tray and level the mixture well
12. Place the tray in the pre-heated oven and bake for 35-40 mins, until a skewer comes out cleanly
13. Remove from the oven and rest for 5 minutes before removing the baked slice from the tray and allow to cool on a rack
14. Cut into slices and serve with for afternoon tea or for a snack at any time
15. Serve with raspberries or a dollop of cream for afternoon tea or for as a snack at any time