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Slice of German fruit cake topped with nuts and fruits, perfect for holidays

German Fruit Cake

A delightful holiday treat, this German Fruit Cake is loaded with candied fruits, nuts, and warm spices, creating a rich and comforting dessert perfect for festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 16 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: German, Holiday
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fruits
  • 2 lbs candied mixed fruit Assorted candied fruits
  • 1/2 lb red candied cherries
  • 1/2 lb green candied cherries
  • 1 can crushed pineapple, well drained (20 oz) Ensure well drained to avoid excess moisture
  • 1 box seedless raisins (12 oz)
Other Ingredients
  • 15.5 oz unsweetened applesauce (mixed with 3 tsp baking soda)
  • 1/2 lb walnut meats Can substitute with pecans
  • 2 tsp allspice
  • 2 tsp nutmeg
  • 3 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups sugar
  • 2 sticks butter Softened
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F.
  2. Cream the butter using an electric mixer until smooth.
  3. Add sugar and cream well together with the butter.
  4. Mix in the spices and salt.
  5. Add the eggs and beat well until combined.
  6. Gradually add the fruits while alternating with the flour. The mixture will become very thick, so switch to a heavy-duty wooden spoon to mix.
  7. Stir in the applesauce that has been mixed with the baking soda.
  8. Line a tube pan or large bundt pan with wax paper.
  9. Fill the pan halfway to three-quarters full.
  10. Bake for around 3 hours, checking regularly around the 2.5-hour mark with a toothpick. The cake is ready when the toothpick comes out clean.
  11. Let the cake cool until you can carefully unmold it.
Optional Topping
  1. Optional: Top the cake with cherries and pineapple rings after it comes out of the oven if desired.

Notes

Make the cake a few days in advance for better flavor development. Store tightly wrapped for freshness. You can freeze for up to three months.