German Christmas bread

German Cake: A delicacy you must not miss

If you are looking for a recipe for cake that combines simplicity with a special taste, German cake is the perfect choice. Also known as Stollen, this dessert is a less complex version of the traditional cake, but no less delicious. Let's explore together the necessary steps to achieve a perfect cake, as well as some details about the ingredients used, useful tips, and stories from the kitchen.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

- 5 large eggs
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g melted butter
- 250 g flour
- 50 g raisins
- 3-4 tablespoons chopped nuts
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Candied orange and lemon peel (optional, but recommended)

Steps for a perfect German cake:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature. This will help with even mixing. Prepare all your ingredients and measure them accurately so that you don't have unpleasant surprises during the cooking process.

2. Mixing the egg yolks with the sugar
In a large bowl, add the egg yolks and half of the sugar (100 g). Use an electric mixer to beat the yolks together with the sugar until you achieve a creamy and light-colored mixture. This step is essential for incorporating the air necessary for a fluffy texture.

3. Incorporating the melted butter
Add the melted butter (make sure it has cooled slightly) to the egg yolk mixture and mix well. The butter adds not only moisture but also a rich flavor.

4. Adding the flavors
Next, incorporate the raisins, chopped nuts, candied citrus peel (if using), and cinnamon. The cinnamon will provide a warm and comforting aroma, perfect for the cold season.

5. Preparing the egg whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy, gradually adding the remaining sugar (100 g). Continue beating until you achieve a firm foam, which will help the cake to be airy and fluffy.

6. Combining the ingredients
Slowly add the baking powder mixed with the lemon juice (this will help the cake rise) and then gradually incorporate the flour. Mix with a spatula, being careful not to rush, so as not to lose the air accumulated.

7. Incorporating the egg whites
Once the flour is well incorporated, carefully add the beaten egg whites. Use a spatula and mix with gentle up-and-down movements to maintain the volume. It is essential not to overmix to avoid deflating the egg whites.

8. Baking the cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and pour in the mixture. Level the surface with a spatula. Bake the cake for about 45 minutes or until it turns golden, and if you test it with a skewer, it should come out clean.

9. Cooling and dusting
After the cake is baked, remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a rack. Once completely cooled, dust it with powdered sugar. This not only adds an elegant look but also a sweet note.

10. Serving
The German cake is delightfully served alongside tea or coffee, making it perfect for breakfast or as a snack. I recommend pairing it with fruit jam or cream cheese to complement its flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Although the German cake is a dessert, it contains healthy ingredients such as nuts, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and eggs, which provide quality protein. Raisins add fiber and antioxidants, making it a good choice for sweetening the dessert naturally.

Possible variations:
To customize the cake, you can experiment with various flavors by adding vanilla or almond extract. You can also replace the nuts with hazelnuts or pistachios, giving it a unique touch.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the cake will have a denser texture.

- How can I keep the cake fresh for longer?
You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze it for later consumption.

- What other recipes can it be combined with?
This cake pairs wonderfully with cocoa cookies or a chocolate cake for a festive meal.

So now that you have all the necessary information, I invite you to start cooking and enjoy the aroma and taste of this delicious German cake. It is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for any occasion, but especially to bring a touch of joy to the colder days. Bon appétit!