How to Make a Christmas Cake ...?

Are you looking for a cake with a unique Christmas appeal? Try this recipe to make a traditional English Christmas cake that includes brandied fruit and almonds. You can bake this cake days in advance of your Christmas celebration.
1 ounce. (28 grams) almonds
8 ounces (227 grams) currants
8 ounces (227 grams) golden raisins
8 ounces (227 grams) raisins
1 ounce (28 grams) glace cherries, quartered (or Maraschino cherries)
2 ounces (57 grams) mixed peel
Zest from 1 lemon
Zest from 1 orange
3 tablespoons good brandy
1 cup plain flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon all-spice
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon molasses
1 cup butter, softened
4 eggs, room temperature
For the Topping:
7 ounces (200 grams) marzipan
1 to 2 tablespoons warm apricot jam
3 egg whites
1 pound(600 grams) powdered sugar, sifted
1- ½ teaspoon liquid glycerin (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed