Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried tart cherries
  • 1/2 cup golden raisins
  • 4 tablespoons kirsch (clear cherry brandy)
  • 1/4 cup warm water (105F. to 115F.)
  • Pinch of sugar
  • 2 envelopes dry yeast
  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 tablespoon grated lemon peel
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup lukewarm milk
  • 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 cup almonds, toasted finely chopped
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons kirsch
  • 2 teaspoons milk

Method

  • Combine first 3 ingredients in medium bowl.
  • Let stand 15 minutes.
  • Combine 1/4 cup warm water and pinch of sugar in bowl.
  • Sprinkle yeast over; stir to dissolve.
  • Let stand 10 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in large mixer bowl fitted with dough hook, beat 6 tablespoons butter, 3/4 cup sugar, yolks, peel, vanilla, almond extract and salt until well blended.
  • Add yeast mixture, milk and 1 cup flour and beat until smooth.
  • Beat in dried fruits and their soaking liquid.
  • Gradually add remaining 2 1/2 cups flour and beat until very soft dough forms, about 6 minutes.
  • Let stand 15 minutes.
  • Butter 12-cup kugelhupf or Bundt pan with 2 tablespoons butter.
  • Add almonds; tilt pan to coat bottom and sides.
  • Spoon dough into pan.
  • Cover with plastic and towel.
  • Let dough rise in warm place until within 1 inch of top of pan, about 2 1/2 hours.
  • Preheat oven to 350F.
  • Bake kugelhupf until tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 35 minutes.
  • Let stand 10 minutes.
  • Turn out onto rack; cool completely.
  • Combine sugar and kirsch in bowl.
  • Add milk; stir.
  • Spoon over kugelhupf.