Creating your Rich & Fruity Pound Cake is easier than you might think! Just follow these straightforward steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition before adding the next.
5. Incorporate Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
7. Add Fruits and Zest: Gently fold in the chopped dried fruits and lemon zest if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.
8. Pour Into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Following these simple steps will yield a beautifully baked Rich & Fruity Pound Cake that is sure to be a hit!