Baking your Chocolate Fruit Cake can be an effortless experience if you follow these detailed steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

5. Incorporate Fruits: Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits and fresh fruits. If you’re using chocolate chips, add them as well for an extra layer of chocolate goodness.

6. Divide Batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

7. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven, baking for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the Cakes: After baking, remove the cakes from the oven. Allow them to cool in the pans for about 15 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

9. Prepare for Assembly: Once both layers are cool, you can start assembling your cake. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.

10. Layering and Serving: If desired, you can add a layer of whipped cream or frosting between the cake layers before placing the second layer on top. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.