Description of this recipe: This delightful Super Easy German Fruit Cake, known as Obstkuchen, is a classic dessert that brings together a light, airy cake base with a vibrant assortment of fresh fruits, all coated in a shimmering glaze. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations, this cake is both simple to make and visually stunning. The combination of textures and flavors—soft cake, juicy fruits, and sweet glaze—creates a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress.
Why you will love this recipe: You will absolutely fall in love with this Super Easy German Fruit Cake for its simplicity, versatility, and irresistible taste. Imagine sinking your teeth into a fluffy, tender cake base, topped with a medley of your favorite fruits, each bite bursting with natural sweetness. The glossy red glaze not only enhances the cake’s visual appeal but also adds a layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the fruit. This recipe is incredibly adaptable; you can use whatever fruits are in season or readily available, making it a year-round favorite. Moreover, the quick preparation and baking time mean you can whip up this impressive dessert even on a busy day. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
Cake Base:
- 6 tbsp sunflower oil or avocado oil
- 6 tbsp sugar
- 3 eggs
- 6 tbsp flour
- 1.5 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla sugar
Fruit Topping:
- Assortment of fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, bananas, sour cherries, canned mandarins, canned pears or peaches, apricots)
- 1 package red glaze (Dr. Oetker) or homemade glaze (recipe follows)
Homemade Glaze (Alternative to Dr. Oetker):
- 1 cup fruit juice (such as apple or grape)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and eggs. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes light and bubbly. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake. Continue beating for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture doubles in volume and turns pale yellow.
Step 2: Add Oil and Flour Gradually add the oil, one tablespoon at a time, to the egg mixture while continuing to beat on medium speed. Ensure the oil is fully incorporated before adding the next spoonful. This prevents the batter from separating and maintains a smooth consistency. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Sift this dry mixture into the wet ingredients to avoid lumps. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract or vanilla sugar for added flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Form Grease your 11-inch German pie form with butter or cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking. Sprinkle the form with breadcrumbs (neutral taste) or flour to create an extra layer of protection. This ensures that the cake releases easily from the pan after baking. Pour the batter into the prepared baking form, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
Step 4: Bake the Cake Place the baking form in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes. Keep a close eye on the cake, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. The cake is done when it turns a light golden color and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Prepare the Fruit Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. This prevents the cake from breaking when you transfer it to a serving plate. While the cake is cooling, prepare your fruit topping. Wash and slice any larger fruits such as strawberries, bananas, and peaches into smaller, bite-sized pieces. If using canned fruits, drain them thoroughly.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake Once the cake has cooled, carefully invert it onto a large serving plate. Arrange the prepared fruit attractively on top of the cake, creating a colorful and appealing pattern. Feel free to get creative with your arrangement!
Step 7: Prepare and Apply the Glaze If using store-bought glaze, prepare it according to the package instructions. Alternatively, make your own glaze by combining fruit juice, cornstarch, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes clear. Let the glaze cool slightly before pouring it evenly over the fruit. The glaze will set as it cools, creating a beautiful, glossy finish.
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions: This Super Easy German Fruit Cake is perfect on its own as a dessert or as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s also a wonderful addition to brunch spreads or afternoon tea parties. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips:
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better cake texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined to avoid a tough cake.
- Get creative with your fruit selection! Use seasonal fruits for the freshest flavors.
- If you don’t have a German pie form, you can use a regular cake pan.
- For a richer flavor, brush the cooled cake with a simple syrup before adding the fruit.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 15-20 minutes Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.) Calories: 250 Protein: 4g Sodium: 50mg
Conclusion: This Super Easy German Fruit Cake is a delightful dessert that’s both simple to make and visually stunning. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every bite, and savor the satisfaction of creating a beautiful and delicious treat that everyone will love.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use different types of fruit for this cake? A: Absolutely! One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can use any combination of fruits that you enjoy or that are in season. Berries, stone fruits, citrus fruits, and even tropical fruits work well. Just be sure to prepare the fruits properly by washing, slicing, and draining them as needed.
Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cake base a day in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. However, it’s best to assemble the cake with the fruit and glaze shortly before serving to prevent the fruit from becoming soggy and the glaze from losing its shine.
Q3: What can I use instead of the red glaze? A: If you don’t have red glaze, you can make your own fruit glaze using fruit juice, cornstarch, sugar, and lemon juice. Alternatively, you can brush the fruit with a thin layer of melted apricot jam for a glossy finish. You can also skip the glaze altogether and dust the fruit with powdered sugar for a more rustic look.
Q4: Can I make this cake gluten-free? A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. Be sure to choose a blend that is designed for baking and contains xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients. You may also need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe, so keep an eye on the batter consistency.
Q5: How do I store leftover cake? A: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume it within 2-3 days, as the fruit may start to soften over time. To maintain the cake’s texture and flavor, avoid storing it at room temperature for extended periods.
