German Stollen

The Magic of German Christmas Stollen

Introduction:
The heartwarming allure of German Christmas Stollen speaks to a timeless tradition cherished across generations. Known for its rich, fruity flavor and tender crumb, Stollen is a festive staple that brings warmth and joy to holiday gatherings. Imagine the coziness of your home filled with the sweet, spicy aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the air—a real treat for the senses! Want to bring this delicious tradition into your kitchen? Subscribe to receive the full recipe delivered straight to your inbox!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Stollen recipe captures the essence of a classic holiday favorite. You’ll fall in love with its delightful medley of flavors—sweet dried fruits, rich marzipan, and crunchy almonds—all wrapped in a soft, buttery dough. Easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings, this Stollen is sure to become a beloved addition to your festive celebrations.

Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3/4 cup milk, lukewarm
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped candied citrus peel
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 7 oz marzipan
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Necessary Tools:
– Large mixing bowl
– Flour sifter
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Rolling pin
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper

Ingredient Swaps and Additions:
Feel free to swap dried cranberries for dried cherries or currants for a different twist. Add a sprinkle of cardamom for an extra layer of spice. For a nuttier flavor, swap almonds for hazelnuts or walnuts. These variations allow you to tailor the Stollen to your personal taste.

See also Midnight Eclairs

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Begin by combining flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large mixing bowl.
2. Stir in lukewarm milk, melted butter, egg, vanilla, and almond extracts. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
3. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for about an hour.
4. Punch down the dough and gently knead in the spices, fruits, and almonds.
5. Roll the dough into a rectangle, place the marzipan log in the center, then fold to form a loaf.
6. Let the loaf rise on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 30 minutes before baking.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes. Cool, then dust with powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions:
Stollen pairs beautifully with a cup of hot cider or coffee. Slice and serve it as an indulgent breakfast treat or a sweet holiday dessert. Enjoy the loaf with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh fruits for added delight.

Pro Tips for Success:
– Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise.
– Don’t rush the rising process; allowing the dough to properly rest enhances flavor and texture.
– For a professional finish, wrap the Stollen in a tea towel while cooling to retain moisture.

Storing and Reheating:
To preserve freshness, store leftover Stollen in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Before serving, gently warm it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes to restore its soft texture.

FAQ Section:

Q: Can I freeze Stollen?
A: Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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