German Stollen

German Stollen

German Stollen is a delightful bread that is traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season. With its rich flavors and festive ingredients, this loaf is a favorite in many households. It’s often filled with dried fruits, nuts, and a touch of spice, making it a perfect treat for sharing.

Why Make This Recipe

Making German Stollen at home is a wonderful way to bring the holiday spirit into your kitchen. Not only does it fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma, but it also allows you to customize the ingredients to your liking. This recipe is straightforward and gives you a delicious result that everyone will love. Plus, sharing a slice of homemade Stollen with family and friends is a great way to celebrate the season!

How to Make German Stollen

To make a delicious German Stollen, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup candied citrus peel
• 1 egg
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead in the raisins, almonds, and candied peel.
5. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let it rise for about 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve German Stollen

German Stollen is best served sliced. You can enjoy it plain or spread with butter. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a fantastic treat for breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack.

How to Store German Stollen

To keep your Stollen fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a cool, dry place. It can also be kept in the refrigerator for longer freshness. If stored properly, Stollen can last for up to two weeks.

Tips to Make German Stollen

• Ensure that the milk is warm but not hot when adding the yeast to help it activate properly.
• Kneading the dough is essential to develop its texture, so spend a few extra minutes on it.
• Feel free to add other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added flavor.
• Letting the Stollen sit for a day enhances the flavors even more before serving.

Variation

For a variation, try using different nuts or dried fruits according to your taste preferences. Some people enjoy adding marzipan into the center for a special touch.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze German Stollen?
A: Yes, you can freeze German Stollen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to three months.

Q: How long does it take for the dough to rise?
A: The dough usually takes about 1 hour to rise. It should be doubled in size before baking.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. You might want to mix it with all-purpose flour for better results.