German Bremer Klaben
German Bremer Klaben is a delightful sweet bread made with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and spices. This special treat hails from the city of Bremen in Germany. It’s often enjoyed during the holiday season, but it can be made any time of the year for a touch of sweetness.
Why Make This Recipe
Making German Bremer Klaben is a wonderful way to fill your home with the warm and cozy scents of baking. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures to your family table. Perfect for sharing with friends, it can be served warm with butter or enjoyed on its own. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover dried fruits and nuts!
How to Make German Bremer Klaben
Ingredients:
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 200g mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas)
- 100g candied citrus peel
- 100g almonds, chopped
- 100g sugar
- 250ml milk
- 100g butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 packet of dry yeast
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead until smooth.
- Fold in dried fruits, candied peel, and almonds.
- Allow to rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool before slicing. Serve thickly sliced with butter.
How to Serve German Bremer Klaben
German Bremer Klaben is best served in thick slices. Spread a bit of butter on each slice for extra flavor. It pairs nicely with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect companion for your morning or afternoon snack.
How to Store German Bremer Klaben
To store your German Bremer Klaben, wrap it in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it fresh for a longer time, consider freezing it. Just make sure to slice it first, and it will stay good in the freezer for about 3 months.
Tips to Make German Bremer Klaben
- Make sure your milk is warm, but not hot. This helps the yeast activate properly.
- Knead the dough well to ensure a good texture.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for the best results.
- Feel free to get creative with the dried fruits and nuts you use!
Variation
You can try adding different flavors like vanilla or almond extract for a unique twist. Additionally, you can substitute some of the dried fruits or nuts according to your preference!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried ones?
A1: Fresh fruits have a high moisture content and may alter the texture of the bread. It’s best to stick with dried fruits for this recipe.
Q2: How can I tell if my Klaben is done baking?
A2: The Klaben is done when it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Q3: What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
A3: If your dough does not rise, it may be due to old yeast or a temperature that is too cool. Make sure the milk is warm and your yeast is fresh. You can try again in a warmer spot if needed.
Enjoy baking and tasting this wonderful German Bremer Klaben! It’s sure to bring joy to your kitchen and your loved ones.
