Früchtebrot Fruit Bread

During the festive season in Germany, Früchtebrot, or Fruit Bread, holds a special place on the table. This traditional Christmas recipe dates back centuries, blending the sweetness of dried fruits with the warm spices of the season. The delightful aroma that fills the house as this bread bakes is enough to spark holiday cheer in anyone’s heart. So, let’s dive into the joy of baking this comforting Früchtebrot at home!

Title: Früchtebrot Fruit Bread

Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, apricots, and figs)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts work well)
– 1/2 cup rum or orange juice
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 orange, zest and juice
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts. Pour rum or orange juice over the mixture and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour to allow the fruits to plump up.
3. In a saucepan over low heat, warm the milk, honey, molasses, butter, orange zest, orange juice, spices, and salt. Stir occasionally until the butter melts.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
5. Once the wet mixture has cooled slightly, pour it over the dried fruits and nuts. Stir well to combine.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the Früchtebrot to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

This Früchtebrot recipe is a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. The rich flavors of the dried fruits and warm spices meld together beautifully, creating a treat that is perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or sharing with loved ones. Plus, the process of making this Fruit Bread is a wonderful way to create lasting memories in the kitchen during the holiday season. Have fun baking and sharing this festive German classic with your friends and family!