Früchtebrot Mit Nüssen Fruit Bread With Nuts

During the festive season, German Christmas baking traditions come alive with delectable treats that warm the heart and soul. One such beloved recipe is known as Früchtebrot Mit Nüssen, or Fruit Bread with Nuts. This delightfully rich and aromatic bread is loaded with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table or a thoughtful homemade gift for loved ones. Let’s dive into creating this delicious treat that will fill your home with the cozy scents of Christmas.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, chopped dates, and dried apricots)
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, and almonds)
– 1/4 cup candied ginger, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup rum or orange juice
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– Zest of 1 orange
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)

Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, and candied ginger. Pour the rum or orange juice over the mixture and let it soak for at least 1 hour to plump up the fruits.

2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, orange zest, and lemon zest until well combined.

5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.

6. Fold in the soaked dried fruit and nut mixture until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top for a beautiful crunchy finish.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Allow the fruit bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once cooled, slice and serve the Früchtebrot Mit Nüssen with a cup of hot tea or coffee, savoring the warm and comforting flavors of the holiday season.

This Fruit Bread with Nuts makes for a delightful treat that captures the essence of Christmas with every bite. Whether enjoyed with loved ones or shared as a thoughtful gift, this recipe is sure to create lasting memories and spread joy during the festive season. Embrace the spirit of German Christmas baking with this delicious Früchtebrot Mit Nüssen and let the cozy aromas of the holidays fill your home with warmth and love.