Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

Name: Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup molasses; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds); 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, or chopped dried cherries); 1/2 cup candied citrus peel, chopped; Optional: 1/4 cup rum or brandy for soaking

When the holiday season rolls around or a special occasion comes knocking, few desserts can warm your heart and delight your taste buds quite like an Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake. This richly spiced cake is a sweet embrace of nostalgia, evoking family gatherings and cozy celebrations around the fireplace. Brimming with flavors of warm spices, chopped nuts, and a medley of dried fruits, this fruit cake stands tall among its dessert counterparts, promising to be a showstopper at any gathering.

The beauty of this delectable treat extends beyond its incredible flavor profile— it’s a time-honored recipe passed down through generations, making it a cherished part of many holiday traditions. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the enticing aromas of cinnamon and cloves as we dive into this delightful recipe.

Why Make This Recipe

The cake’s complex flavor combination delivers a symphony of tastes in every bite.
It’s perfect for sharing during holidays or special occasions, bringing a touch of German culinary tradition to your table.

This fruit cake not only pleases the palate but also creates lasting memories, making it a worthy addition to your baking repertoire.

Simple Way to Prepare Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

Baking an Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake is more straightforward than you might think, especially when you break it down into detailed steps. Let’s get started with the best way to create this delightful concoction in your very own kitchen.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you embark on your baking journey, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients ready. Here’s what you will need:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup molasses
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, or chopped dried cherries)
1/2 cup candied citrus peel, chopped
Optional: 1/4 cup rum or brandy for soaking

Step 2: Preparing the Cake Batter

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. This step combines the spices and leavening agents, setting the stage for your cake.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Add the Eggs and Molasses: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next. Next, stir in the molasses.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix just until incorporated—be careful not to overmix as this can lead to a dense cake.
Incorporate Fruits and Nuts: Fold in the chopped nuts, mixed dried fruits, and candied citrus peel. If you’re feeling adventurous, you may want to soak the dried fruits in rum or brandy for extra flavor. This optional step enriches their taste and adds moisture to the cake.

Step 3: Baking Your Masterpiece

Prepare Your Baking Pan: Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Pour in the Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely intoxicating by this point!
Cool: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Keeping Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake Fresh

To maintain the wonderful flavors and freshness of your Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake, consider these storage tips:

Refrigerate for 3–4 days at 40°F. The cool environment will help prolong freshness.
Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist.
For longer preservation, freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Ensure you wrap it tightly in foil or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Best Ways to Serve Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

Serving your Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake can be as delightful as baking it. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:

Simple Slices: Serve slices as-is for a classic approach. The rich flavor pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee.
Topped with Glaze: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk on top for added sweetness.
Pair with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can balance the cake’s warm spices beautifully.
Warm It Up: A gentle warming in the microwave (for about 10 seconds) enhances the flavors and aromas, giving it a freshly-baked feel.
Cheese Pairing: For a unique twist, serve with a mild cheese, like a soft brie. The creamy texture complements the fruitiness of the cake.

Tips to Make Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

For the best results when crafting your Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake, keep the following tips in mind:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter and eggs to come to room temperature for better texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix gently to prevent a dense cake.
Soak the Fruits: For maximum flavor, consider soaking your dried fruits a day in advance in rum or brandy.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re thinking of personalizing your Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake or trying something new, consider the following variations:

Different Nuts: Feel free to swap out walnuts, pecans, or almonds for your favorite nut variety, just ensure they’re chopped to a similar size so they mix thoroughly.
Fruit Medley: Use dried figs, apricots, or even apples instead of the traditional dried fruits. Each will impart a unique flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, the flavors develop beautifully when made a few days in advance. Just store it properly, and you can enjoy it at its best.

Q: Is this cake suitable for freezing?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to two months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Q: Can I add more spices?
A: Certainly! If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can increase the amount of cinnamon, cloves, or even add a hint of ginger to mix things up.

Q: Can I substitute buttermilk?
A: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.

Q: What can I serve it with?
A: This cake pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee, and you can enhance the serving with whipped cream or a cheese plate!

In conclusion, crafting an Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake is not just baking; it’s about creating an experience filled with tradition, flavor, and joy. Whether you’re baking for a holiday feast or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake delivers warmth and happiness with every slice. Enjoy your baking adventure, and prepare to impress friends and family alike with this timeless delight. Happy baking!

Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

Why Make This Recipe