Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake

Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake is a rich, spiced cake packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warm holiday flavors. Unlike traditional American fruitcakes, this German version is moist, flavorful, and infused with aromatic spices. It’s a beloved holiday treat that gets better with time, making it perfect for Christmas and other festive occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic and Traditional – A classic German fruitcake with deep flavors.
• Rich and Moist – Unlike dry fruitcakes, this version stays tender and delicious.
• Perfect for the Holidays – Ideal for Christmas, celebrations, or gifting.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Improves in flavor as it sits.
• Customizable – Use your favorite dried fruits and nuts for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Butter
• Milk
• Honey
• Mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, or figs)
• Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts)
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Cloves
• Vanilla extract
• Rum or fruit juice (for soaking the dried fruits)

Directions

1. Prepare the Fruit – Soak the dried fruits in rum or fruit juice for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
2. Preheat the Oven – Set to 325°F (163°C) and grease a loaf or bundt pan.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Cream Butter and Sugar – In a separate large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add Wet Ingredients – Mix in eggs, honey, and vanilla extract.
6. Combine Everything – Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, and fold in the soaked fruits and nuts.
7. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Cool and Store – Let the cake cool completely, then wrap it tightly. The flavors develop even more after a day or two.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time)
• Bake Time: 60-75 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1.5-2 hours

Variations

• Alcohol-Free Version – Soak the dried fruit in orange juice instead of rum.
• Chocolate Twist – Add chopped dark chocolate or cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
• Spiced Glaze – Drizzle with a cinnamon or rum glaze for extra sweetness.
• Extra Moisture – Brush the cake with a bit of rum or honey after baking.
• Whole Wheat Option – Substitute part of the flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature – Wrap tightly and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration – Keeps for up to 2 weeks when stored properly.
• Freezing – Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
• Reheating – Serve at room temperature or warm slices slightly in the microwave.

FAQs

What makes German fruit cake different from other fruitcakes?

German fruit cake tends to be spiced, moist, and less dense than some American versions, with a rich balance of dried fruit and nuts.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?

No, fresh fruit adds too much moisture and can affect the cake’s texture. Stick to dried fruits.

Do I have to soak the dried fruit?

Soaking enhances the flavor and keeps the cake moist, but if short on time, you can skip it.

Can I use different nuts?

Yes! Almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, or pecans all work well.

How long should I let the cake sit before serving?

It tastes best after resting for a day or two, allowing the flavors to blend.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

What can I use instead of rum?

Orange juice, apple juice, or even tea can be used as a non-alcoholic alternative.

Can I bake this in muffin tins?

Yes! Adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes for fruit cake muffins.

How can I prevent my fruit from sinking?

Toss the dried fruits in a little flour before adding them to the batter.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

Enjoy it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or a spread of butter.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned German Fruit Cake is a timeless holiday treat that combines warm spices, dried fruit, and nuts for a rich and flavorful dessert. Whether you enjoy it with coffee, tea, or as a festive gift, this traditional cake is sure to become a favorite during the holiday season. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it year after year!