Baking your Rich & Fruity Pound Cake is straightforward if you follow these organized steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process takes about 3-5 minutes.

3. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Mix Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mix to the butter and sugar mixture alternately with the whole milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

6. Add Flavoring: Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest until evenly distributed.

7. Fold in Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in the mixed berries, diced peaches, and optional nuts, being careful not to overmix.

8. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top for an even bake.

9. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.