Craving a taste of traditional German Christmas baking this holiday season? Look no further than this delightful Zimt Frucht Kuchen, a heavenly Cinnamon Fruit Cake that is sure to fill your home with festive cheer. Bursting with warm cinnamon flavor and sweet dried fruits, this cake is a must-have for cozy gatherings and joyful celebrations.
**Zimt Frucht Kuchen (Cinnamon Fruit Cake)**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, apricots, and cranberries)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the eggs to the butter one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the plain yogurt, until a thick batter forms.
6. Fold in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, slice the Zimt Frucht Kuchen into wedges and serve with a dusting of powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and fruits in every bite!
Create lasting memories this holiday season with the aroma of freshly baked Zimt Frucht Kuchen wafting through your home. This Cinnamon Fruit Cake is a wonderful treat to share with loved ones or to enjoy alongside a cozy evening by the fireplace. Embrace the spirit of the season with this festive German baking tradition that is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Happy baking and happy holidays from our cozy home to yours!
