Go Back

Chewy German Fruit Bread

A traditional German fruit bread featuring a delightful mix of dried fruits and nuts, known for its chewy texture and rich flavors, perfect for snacking or festive occasions.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: German
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour The base for a soft, chewy texture
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar For a hint of caramel sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Spices up the flavor profile
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances the sweetness of the fruits
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup warm milk Activates the yeast and enriches the dough
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast For tender crumb and height
  • 1/4 cup honey Helps to bind and add moisture
Fillings
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruits Such as apricots, figs, and raisins for sweetness
  • 1 cup mixed nuts Walnuts and almonds add crunch and depth

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast; let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. Add the frothy yeast mixture and honey to the dry ingredients, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
  4. Fold in the mixed dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  6. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the risen dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it into a greased loaf pan.
  8. Cover again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  10. Allow it to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, as hot milk can kill the yeast. Experiment with different combinations of dried fruits and nuts to find your perfect blend. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its chewy texture.