Ovocný Chlebíček Fruitcake

Christmas in the Czech Republic is a time filled with joy, laughter, and delicious festive treats. One popular baking tradition during this holiday season is making Ovocný Chlebíček, a delightful fruitcake that epitomizes the essence of Czech Christmas. This fruity and nutty cake is perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting to friends. Let’s dive into the heartwarming process of baking this Czech Republic Christmas favorite: Ovocný Chlebíček Fruitcake.

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, diced
– 1/2 cup candied citrus peel
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated.

5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. Stir in the chopped walnuts, raisins, dried cranberries, diced apricots, candied citrus peel, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and mix everything together until evenly distributed.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

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

9. Once baked, remove the fruitcake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Allow the Ovocný Chlebíček Fruitcake to cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy the rich flavors of fruits and nuts in every scrumptious bite!

Ovocný Chlebíček Fruitcake is a wonderful addition to your Christmas baking repertoire. This Czech Christmas delight will fill your home with the warm and comforting aromas of the holiday season. Share the love and tradition by baking this delicious fruitcake for your family and friends. Happy baking and Merry Christmas!