Delicious Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

This traditional German fruit cake is a moist and rich classic, loaded with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices. Its deep flavors develop over time, making it a perfect treat for the holiday season or any special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 cup (150 g) raisins

1 cup (150 g) currants

1 cup (150 g) chopped dried apricots

½ cup (75 g) chopped candied citrus peel

¼ cup (60 ml) orange juice (for soaking)

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

1 tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp ground nutmeg

¼ tsp ground cloves

½ tsp salt

½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup (200 g) brown sugar

3 large eggs

½ cup (120 ml) buttermilk

½ cup (60 g) chopped almonds or hazelnuts

Zest of 1 lemon

Zest of 1 orange

For Brushing (Optional):

2–3 tbsp dark rum or orange juice

Instructions

.Soak the Fruits:

In a bowl, combine raisins, currants, apricots, and candied citrus peel.

Pour rum or orange juice over the fruit and let it soak for at least 1 hour (or overnight for better flavor).

. Prepare the Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Grease and line a loaf pan or an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

.Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk.

Fold in the soaked fruits (with their liquid), nuts, lemon zest, and orange zest until just combined.

.Bake the Cake:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.

Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

. Cool and Brush:

Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional: Brush the top with additional orange juice for added moisture and flavor.

Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time)

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (plus soaking)

Servings: 10–12 slices

Calories per Serving: ~280

Tips for Success:

Storage: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest for 1–2 days before serving to enhance flavors.

Optional Glaze: Add a light glaze of powdered sugar and water for a festive touch.

This Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake is a timeless recipe full of nostalgia and holiday spirit. Its flavors only get better with age, making it a cherished favorite for generations! Enjoy