Christmas Cake

Fruit cakes have a long and noble history, going back at least to the medieval era when richly spiced fruited breads were features of any celebration. During the 18th century the rich fruit cake as we know it in Britain today developed, complete with marzipan and royal icing. They were expensive to make, but could be kept for years. Until the late Victorian era they were usually made for Twelfth Night, but as the 19th century waned and Christmas celebrations became centred