Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

This Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake is a delightful, spiced treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. Perfect for gatherings or festive celebrations, this cake stands out with its rich flavors and textures from a medley of dried fruits and nuts. The combination of molasses and buttermilk gives it a unique twist on traditional fruitcake, making it a memorable dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and sweetness from the fruits makes each bite incredibly flavorful.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it during holidays or as an everyday dessert; it’s sure to please everyone.
• Aging Benefits: Letting the cake sit for a couple of weeks enhances its flavors, making it even more delicious.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out nuts and fruits to suit your personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking this delicious Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Baking pan (9×5 inch)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without spilling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measuring ensures the right balance of flavors.
• Whisk or electric mixer: Helps achieve a light texture by properly incorporating air into the batter.
• Baking pan: A good-quality pan helps in even cooking, leading to a perfectly baked cake.

Ingredients

Dry 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

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

Add-ins

• 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 Flavor Enhancer

• 1/4 cup vanilla extract (alcohol-free) or apple juice for soaking

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: German

How to Make Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly throughout.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. Dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients:
1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl:
1. Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Stir in molasses and buttermilk into the butter mixture until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
2. Fold in chopped nuts, dried fruits, and candied citrus peel.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan:
1. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and allow cooling in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

Serving Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake is a delightful experience, especially during the holiday season. This cake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the dense fruit cake.

Serve with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoying a slice alongside a cup of herbal tea or strong coffee accentuates the spiced notes in the cake.

Top with Fresh Fruits

• Adding fresh berries or sliced citrus fruits not only looks appealing but also adds a refreshing zest to each bite.

Drizzle with Honey or Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of honey or maple syrup can enhance sweetness and bring out the cake’s complex flavors.

Add Cheese on the Side

• A slice of sharp cheese, like aged cheddar, offers a savory balance to the sweetness of the fruit cake.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkle some toasted nuts on top for extra crunch and richness, elevating both texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

Perfecting your Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake can take your baking game to new heights. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffier texture.

• Soak dried fruits: Soaking mixed dried fruits in apple juice (or alcohol-free vanilla extract) overnight can enhance their flavor and keep them moist.

• Avoid overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready; if not, give it more time in the oven.

• Let it age: Allow your fruit cake to sit for at least two weeks before serving for deeper flavors. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a cool place.

• Store properly: Keep leftover fruit cake wrapped tightly to maintain freshness. You can refrigerate or freeze slices for later enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake enhances its charm. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky mashed potatoes add comfort and richness that complement the spiced flavors of the cake.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with herbs provide an earthy counterbalance, making for a well-rounded meal.

3. Apple Sauce: The sweetness of apple sauce brings a fresh note that pairs beautifully with spice-laden desserts like this fruit cake.

4. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses offers variety and depth; choose both soft and hard varieties for texture contrast.

5. Spiced Nuts: A mix of roasted spiced nuts adds crunch and enhances festive vibes when served alongside slices of fruit cake.

6. Cranberry Chutney: The tartness of cranberry chutney brightens each bite, complementing the rich sweetness of the fruit cake perfectly.

7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast and balances the heaviness of the cake while adding color to your table.

8. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt parfaits topped with granola offer a creamy option that contrasts nicely with the density of traditional fruit cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake can be easy if you steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make your cake dense. Mix until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Using stale ingredients – Fresh ingredients are key to flavor. Always check the freshness of your spices, baking powder, and dried fruits.
• Skipping the aging process – Aging enhances flavors in fruit cakes. Allow your cake to rest for at least a week before serving for the best taste.
• Not measuring accurately – Precision is important in baking. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients and measuring cups for liquids.
• Ignoring oven temperature – An incorrect temperature can ruin your cake. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the right heat before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

Freezing Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its flavor.

Reheating Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cake wrapped in foil in the oven for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake:

What fruits are best for Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake?

Dried fruits like raisins, currants, and chopped cherries work wonderfully. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste preferences.

Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes! You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk.

How long should I age my Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake?

Aging it for at least one week allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can even let it sit longer for deeper flavors.

Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I add additional spices or nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with spices like ginger or additional nuts like pecans or hazelnuts based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its rich flavors make it a delightful treat during holidays or special occasions. Customize it with your favorite dried fruits and nuts, and enjoy this classic dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering.

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Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of the Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake, a timeless dessert that beautifully embodies the holiday spirit. This moist cake is bursting with a medley of dried fruits and nuts, accented by aromatic spices like cinnamon and cloves. The unique combination of molasses and buttermilk not only enriches the cake’s texture but also enhances its flavor profile, making it a memorable centerpiece for any festive gathering. Perfectly suited for both special occasions and everyday enjoyment, this cake can be customized to your liking by swapping out different fruits and nuts. Let it age for a couple of weeks to deepen its flavors, creating an irresistible treat that friends and family will cherish.

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Ingredients

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• 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
• 1/4 cup apple juice for soaking

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9×5 inch baking pan.
2. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light; add eggs one at a time.
4. Mix molasses and buttermilk into the butter mixture until combined.
5. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into the wet mixture without overmixing; fold in fruits and nuts.
6. Pour into the prepared pan and smooth the top; bake for about 75 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cooling before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: German

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg