Old Fashioned German Fruit Cake Recipe

Old Fashioned German Fruit Cake Recipe

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Old Fashioned German Fruit Cake Recipe brings back so many delightful memories for me. Growing up, the scent of this delicious cake baking in the oven was a joy that filled our house with warmth and nostalgia. This cake is perfect for special occasions, and its rich flavors tell a story of tradition and comfort. Today, I’ll share my favorite recipe with you, and I can’t wait for you to try it out.

What Makes German Fruit Cake Special?

German fruit cake, also known as “Stollen,” is a festive treat that is especially popular during the holidays. It is packed with candied fruits, nuts, and spices, making it a flavor explosion in every bite. The cake is known for its rich texture and the way it blends sweetness with a hint of spice.

Every bite of this cake feels like a warm hug. I remember the times when I was at my Grandma’s kitchen, helping her prepare this cake for Christmas while listening to stories of her childhood. Those moments created a bond that I cherish even today.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned German Fruit Cake Recipe

Fruit Cake Ingredients:

  • 3 cups mixed dried fruits (like apricots, cherries, and raisins)
  • 1 cup nuts (like walnuts and almonds), chopped
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup rum or apple juice
  • Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Old Fashioned German Fruit Cake Recipe

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to prepare this delightful cake. Here’s how to do it step by step:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is the perfect temperature to ensure a beautiful bake.
  2. Prepare the Fruit Mix: Chop up your dried fruits and nuts. In a bowl, combine them with a tablespoon of flour to keep them from sinking in the batter. This little trick works wonders.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This gives your cake a lovely flavor base.
  1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. I love this step since it creates such a heavenly aroma in the kitchen.
  2. Add the Eggs: Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture. Be sure to mix well after each addition, creating a smooth texture.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in the orange juice, rum (or apple juice), and the zests of orange and lemon. The zests add a fresh bright flavor that’s hard to resist.
  1. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Nobody wants a tough fruit cake!
  2. Gently Fold in Fruits and Nuts: Now, fold in the fruit and nut mixture. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Baking the Fruit Cake

Now comes the exciting part of baking. Here are your next steps:

  1. Prepare the Pan: Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper. This makes it easier to remove the cake after baking.
  2. Pour the Batter: Spoon the cake batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
  3. Bake: Bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your house will be absolutely divine!
  1. Cool Down: Once it’s done, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Tips for the Cake

I always recommend making the fruit cake in advance and storing it. This allows the flavors to deepen. Here’s how to store your Old Fashioned German Fruit Cake:

  • Wrap it Up: Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
  • Refrigerate or Freeze: You can store the cake in the refrigerator for up to a month or freeze it for up to three months.
  • Bring it Back to Life: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Variations of Old Fashioned German Fruit Cake Recipe

While the classic recipe is fantastic, you might want to try these variations:

  1. Add Cocoa Powder: You can add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolaty twist.
  2. Use Different Fruits: Feel free to substitute with your favorite dried fruits. Cranberries or figs provide a unique flavor.
  3. Glazed Topping: For a little extra flair, make a glaze with powdered sugar and water or lemon juice to drizzle on top.
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Serving Suggestions

Now that you have your beautiful Old Fashioned German Fruit Cake, it’s time to think about serving it. Here are a few ideas:

  • Pair it with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
  • Serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
  • Slice it thinly and add to a dessert platter for special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are always some questions when it comes to baking lessons. Here are a few questions I often encounter:

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results.

How Can I Prevent the Nuts from Burning?

If you are worried about the nuts burning, you can toast them lightly beforehand. This will help bring out the flavor without risking a burnt taste.

How Long Does the Cake Last?

If stored properly, the cake can last up to a month in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer.

Making an Old Fashioned German Fruit Cake is not just about baking; it’s about sharing memories and traditions with loved ones. I hope this recipe inspires you to create your own wonderful memories in the kitchen.