Creating the Rich & Fruity Pound Cake is easy if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs: One at a time, beat in the eggs, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Alternate with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
6. Add Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon or orange zest if using for a fresh flavor.
7. Fold in Fruits: Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Before serving, sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired, for a beautiful finish.