Ancient German Fruit Cake
The Ancient German Fruit Cake, also known as "Früchtebrot," is a delightful and rich dessert that has its roots in traditional German baking. This cake is packed with a variety of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, making it perfect for festive occasions or cozy gatherings. Its rich flavors and dense texture are sure to become a favorite among family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
Making the Ancient German Fruit Cake is a wonderful way to honor culinary traditions while creating a delicious treat. The combination of dried fruits and nuts not only brings a burst of flavor but also provides a satisfying and hearty dessert. Plus, this cake is incredibly versatile—you can enjoy it during the holidays, at tea time, or as a sweet snack any day.
How to Make Ancient German Fruit Cake
Ingredients
- Dried cherries
- Raisins
- Dams
- Orange peel
- Confited lemon
- Rum or brandy
- Butter
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Flour
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Clove
- Lemon zest
- Orange zest
- Mixed nuts
Directions
- Soak fruits: Combine dried cherries, raisins, dams, orange peel, and confited lemon with rum or brandy. Let them marinate for at least 4 hours to develop rich flavors.
- Prepare dough: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter with sugar until fluffy. Add in eggs, vanilla, and citrus zests, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
- Add fruits and bake: Gently fold the soaked fruits and mixed nuts into the dough. Pour the mixture into a prepared baking pan and bake in a preheated oven at 165 °C (325 °F) for about 1 hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Finish: Once baked, let the cake cool completely. For added flavor, brush the top with more rum or brandy. Decorate with glazed cherries or a dusting of icing sugar for a festive touch.
How to Serve Ancient German Fruit Cake
Serve the Ancient German Fruit Cake at room temperature. You can slice it into thick pieces and enjoy it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
How to Store Ancient German Fruit Cake
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to two weeks or freeze it for up to three months. Make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
Tips to Make Ancient German Fruit Cake
- Use fresh dried fruits for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different nuts to customize the recipe to your taste.
- Consider adding a bit more rum or brandy for an extra kick.
- For a gluten-free version, you can replace the flour with a suitable gluten-free alternative.
Variation
If you’d like to switch things up, you can add chocolate chips or spices like cardamom and ginger for a unique twist. You can also try different combinations of nuts, such as almonds or walnuts.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake actually tastes better after a few days as the flavors develop. You can make it several days in advance.
2. What can I do if I don’t have rum or brandy?
You can use fruit juice or water to soak the fruits instead. While it won’t be as rich, the cake will still be delicious.
3. Can I substitute the dried fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite dried fruits, like apricots or cranberries, to make it your own.
Enjoy making and sharing this hearty and flavorful Ancient German Fruit Cake!