Melt
1/2 cup (one stick) unsalted butter.
In a mixer bowl, combine
1 cup sugar
the melted butter
3 tablespoons brandy
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 eggs.
Grate into the bowl
zest of one orange.
Beat until light.
Add
3 cups unbleached all-purpose white flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking power
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup walnuts
1/2 cup candied ginger pieces
1/2 cup dried cranberries
Mix, adding enough additional flour so that the dough holds its shape,
it can be a bit stiff.
Form the dough into three loaves, about 2 inches across. Place on silicone baking mat (or parchment) on a baking rack and place in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, or until beginning to brown.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool, at least 5 minutes. Slice diagonally into 1/4 inch slices and place on two silicone baking mats, on baking racks, closely packed. Return to the oven for 25--30 minutes, until brown around the edges, interchanging and reversing the mats halfway through to ensure even baking.
Makes about 60.
© 2003 Richard Waldinger