Fruit Cake

2 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 large eggs, slightly beaten

1 (12-ounce) can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk

2 2/3 cups (28-ounce jar) Borden None Such Ready To Use Mincemeat (see note)

2 cups(16-ounce jar) mixed candied fruit

1 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped

Additional candied fruit and walnut halves for decorating (optional)

1. Butter a 9-inch tube or spring-form pan. Line with parchment or waxbrown paper. Butter again.

2. Sift together flour and baking soda; set aside.

3. In large bowl combine eggs, sweetened condensed milk, mincemeat, fruits and nuts; mix well. Fold in sifted dry ingredients. Turn into prepared pan.

4. Preheat oven to 300*F (150*C).

5. Bake for 2 hours or until center springs back when touched lightly with fingers and top is golden brown. Allow to cool. Remove from pan. Decorate with additional candied fruits and walnut halves, if desired.

Makes 16 to 24 servings.

I was in Germany recently, and I stayed in Velburg, a quaint little town. The Hotel Zur Post is on the square and was built around 1668. That is the date on the church, built with an Onion Dome. Very typical of that region of the country. They serve the very best Potato dumpling with Beef in gravy. Across the street, there is a Bakery Shop that made the finest Apple Dumpling and Black Forrest Cake. What a great place to stay.

Later, I will post places I have been in Europe, about the city, sites, photos, and recipes.

On the road with ol' #98