Melt the butter and sugar in a saucepan with the beer. Add the orange zest and the fruit and bring to a boil and boil for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and allow to cool until lukewarm.

Sift the flour, soda and spices into a large mixing bowl. Add the beer and fruit mixture along with the eggs and blend well.

Spoon into a well greased, 9 inch round spring-form pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 1 hour -until toothpick comes out clean.

Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack.

NOTE: If you resisted swilling down the remaining 2 ounces of beer, you may prick the cake and pour it over the top.

When the cake is cool, seal it in plastic wrap and then tightly in foil. Cake is best when left a couple of days before serving.