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Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

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A delightful fruit cake rich in flavor and packed with nuts and dried fruits, reminiscent of classic German pastries.

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
  • Optional: 1/4 cup rum or brandy for soaking

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt or loaf pan.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
  3. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Stir in the molasses and buttermilk until combined.
  6. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just blended.
  7. Mix in the chopped nuts, dried fruits, and candied citrus peel.
  8. If desired, add the rum or brandy.
  9. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  10. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For added moisture, soak the dried fruits in hot water for about 30 minutes before mixing into the batter. Optional variations include adding chocolate chips or using applesauce instead of buttermilk.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.simplefamilydishes.com/old-fashioned-german-fruit-cake/