Früchtebrot Fruit Loaf

Holiday baking traditions often bring warm memories of time spent in the kitchen, creating delicious treats to share with loved ones. One beloved Austrian Christmas recipe that embodies the spirit of the season is Früchtebrot, also known as Fruit Loaf. This dense and flavorful loaf is packed with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, making it a delightful addition to your festive spread or a thoughtful edible gift for friends and family. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this delightful treat in your own home.

Früchtebrot Fruit Loaf

Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, apricots, and cranberries)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts)
– 1/2 cup rum or orange juice
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Zest of one orange
– Zest of one lemon
– Sliced almonds for topping (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts. Pour the rum or orange juice over the mixture and let it soak for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

2. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

4. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the yeast mixture, warm milk, melted butter, orange zest, and lemon zest. Mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms.

5. Drain any excess liquid from the soaked fruits and nuts, then fold them into the dough until evenly distributed.

6. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, you can sprinkle sliced almonds on top for decoration.

8. Bake the Früchtebrot in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

9. Remove the fruit loaf from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy a slice of this festive treat with a cup of tea or coffee, or wrap it up as a heartfelt gift for someone special.

Indulge in the rich flavors and cozy aromas of this traditional Austrian Früchtebrot Fruit Loaf this holiday season. Whether you bake it for your own enjoyment or share it with others, this recipe is sure to bring joy and warmth to your home during the festive time of year. Happy baking!