Raisin Apricot Loaf

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup dried apricots, (chopped)
• 1/2 cup butter, (softened)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 ounces cream cheese, (softened)
• 2 large eggs, (room temperature)
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon confectioner's sugar, (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   In a saucepan, stir together the raisins, apricots, sugar, and water. Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a low boil. Reduce the heat to simmer and cook for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and cool completely. Do not drain the liquid!!

2. 2

   Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a loaf pan by lightly coating the interior with non-stick cooking spray.

3. 3

   To prepare the loaf batter, in a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, vanilla, and cream cheese until fluffy.

4. 4

   Add each egg one at a time and fully incorporate into the cream cheese mixture.

5. 5

   Add the flour and baking powder. Beat until just incorporated into the batter.

6. 6

   Add the apricots and raisins along with any liquid. Use a spatula to fold them into the batter.

7. 7

   Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan. Tap the pan firmly on your countertop to settle the batter into the folds of the pan.

8. 8

   Bake the loaf for 45-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If the toothpick comes out clean, the loaf is ready. If not, place back in the oven for 3-5 minutes and perform the toothpick test again.

9. 9

   Allow the loaf to cool for five minutes and then transfer to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving. (Optional)