Zelten

Zelten is a traditional fruitcake associated with Christmas in Italy, particularly in the northeast regions of Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Trentino-Alto Adige, where it is prepared as part of holiday celebrations. The cake also appears in Alpine and Tyrolean-influenced communities, reflecting historical regional exchanges.

The dessert is a dense, moist loaf or cake loaded with dried fruits and nuts. Typical ingredients include raisins, currants, candied citrus peel, figs, almonds, and walnuts, bound with flour, eggs, and fat. Spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg are common, and flavorings like vanilla, rum, or grappa are often used. Some versions incorporate breadcrumbs or ground nuts for texture.

Preparation and serving: The fruits are sometimes soaked in wine or spirits before mixing. The batter is formed into a loaf or round cake and baked until firm and moist. Zelten is traditionally prepared several weeks in advance to mature, and is commonly served in slices during Christmas gatherings. Variants range from simple fruit-and-nut loaves to richer versions with chocolate or marzipan.

Etymology and regional distribution: The term Zelten derives from regional dialects, and the dish remains part of Alpine and Adriatic culinary traditions. Similar fruitcakes appear in neighboring cultures, reflecting shared concepts of holiday fruitcake across parts of Europe.