Stollen Recipe by InfoStarBase

Stollen Recipe

Stollen is a classic German Christmas bread known for its rich, buttery flavor and delightful textures. It’s filled with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, making it a festive treat that encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season. Here’s a detailed recipe you can follow to create this delicious bread at home.

Ingredients

To make Stollen, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, or chopped apricots)
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
• 1 large egg
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.

2. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture, softened butter, and the egg. Mix all the ingredients until a rough dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. You want it to become smooth and elastic. Gradually fold in the mixed dried fruits, lemon zest, and chopped nuts, kneading them into the dough.

4. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Shape the Stollen

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into an oval loaf. Fold one side over the other to create a layered effect, which is typical for traditional Stollen.

6. Second Rise

Place the shaped loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes.

7. Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Stollen for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cool and Serve

Let the Stollen cool completely, then dust it generously with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Conclusion

Stollen is best enjoyed sliced, either plain or with a bit of butter. It often tastes even better after a few days, as the flavors meld together. Enjoy this festive treat with coffee or tea during the holiday season!