Elegant Light Fruit Cake

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place a pan of water on the lower rack of the oven to create a humid environment. Grease thoroughly and line with parchment paper (not brown paper) the bottom of one 9-inch, one 7-inch, and one 5-inch round cake pan. (15 minutes)

In a large bowl, combine ground almonds, red cherries, green cherries, candied citron, golden raisins, and candied pineapple. Dredge the mixture with 1 cup of flour, ensuring all the fruit is lightly coated. This prevents the fruit from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking. (10 minutes)

In a separate large bowl, cream together the shortening and 1 cup of flour until light and fluffy. Gradually add the white sugar, beating until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Beat in the egg yolks, one at a time, followed by the almond extract. Continue beating until the mixture is very light and fluffy. (15 minutes)

In a measuring cup, combine the brandy and milk. In a separate bowl, sift together the remaining 3 1/2 cups of flour. Add the brandy-milk mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the flour, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing. (10 minutes)

In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff, glossy peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter in thirds, being careful not to deflate the whites. (10 minutes)

Gently fold in the floured fruit mixture into the batter until evenly distributed. (5 minutes)

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. (5 minutes)

Bake for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time will vary depending on the size of the pan and your oven. If the tops of the cakes begin to brown too quickly, tent them loosely with foil. (150-210 minutes)

Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 15 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Gently peel off the parchment paper. (20 minutes)