Christmas in Germany is a time where the cozy warmth of the season is truly captured in the delightful aromas that waft through the kitchen. Among the many traditional festive treats enjoyed during this time, Rosinenkuchen, or Raisin Cake, holds a special place. This moist and flavorful cake studded with plump, juicy raisins is a staple of German holiday baking, perfect for serving with a cup of hot tea or coffee on a chilly winter evening.
**Rosinenkuchen Raisin Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup of raisins
– 1 cup of rum
– 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of chopped almonds (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the raisins and rum. Let them soak for at least 2 hours or overnight to plump up the raisins and infuse them with the rich rum flavor.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Drain the soaked raisins, reserving any leftover rum for another use. Pat the raisins dry with a paper towel.
8. Gently fold the plump raisins and chopped almonds (if using) into the cake batter until evenly distributed.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
10. Bake the Rosinenkuchen in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.
The Rosinenkuchen Raisin Cake is a wonderful addition to any holiday dessert table, with its rich flavors and moist texture making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Enjoy a slice of this traditional German treat alongside loved ones as you celebrate the magic of the season. From its decadent rum-soaked raisins to the subtle spice of cinnamon and nutmeg, this cake is sure to become a cherished recipe in your repertoire for years to come. Let the spirit of German Christmas baking bring warmth and joy to your home with this delightful Rosinenkuchen Raisin Cake.
