150g brown sugar

200g shredded suet

2 teas mixed spice

2 teas vanilla essence

1 teas almond essence

450g mixed fruit - dates, sticky raisins, apricots, cherries, figs

1 cup flour - fine wholemeal

2 eggs

1 teas baking soda

130 mls milk

1 tab treacle

1 tab rum, brandy or whisky (optional)

Mix together sugar and suet. Beat eggs together and add essences. Mix flour, spice and fruit together. Dissolve soda in milk. Mix eggs and fruit alternatively into sugar/suet. Stir in milk, treacle and spirit. Mix well and make a wish.

Line bottom of microwave-proof bowl. Pour mixture in and cook 13-16 minutes on medium. Test with a toothpick. Top will be slightly moist, but toothpick should be clean. Reheat when ready to serve and invert onto warm plate. Serve with brandy sauce and whipped cream.