2 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 c. sugar
2 pkg. active dry yeast
1/4 c. lukewarm water
1/2 c. milk
1/2 c. butter
4 eggs
1 tsp. almond extract or vanilla
1/2 c. chopped mixed candied fruits
1/3 c. seedless raisins
Vodka syrup

Mix 1 cup of flour, sugar, yeast, and lukewarm water in a large bowl. Let stand.

Combine milk and butter in a saucepan. Heat over low heat until liquid is lukewarm. Gradually add liquid mixtures to dry ingredients and beat with an electric mixer at medium speed for 1 minute, scraping bowl once in a while.

Add eggs, almond extract, and 1/2 of the flour. Beat at high speed for 1-2 minutes. Add remaining flour and turn onto floured board. Knead for 8-10 minutes--until smooth and elastic. Shape into a ball and place in a greased bowl.

Cover and let rise in a warm place until it has doubled in bulk--for about 1 hour.

Stir in candied fruit and raisins. Turn into a greased and floured tube pan. Let rise, uncovered, in a warm place for 30-40 minutes. (Drafts should be avoided.)

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until done. Before removing from pan, prick surface of cake with a fork and pour vodka syrup over cake.

To make Vodka Syrup: Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 1/4 cup vodka in a saucepan and bring to a boil.