Authentic German Stollen is a traditional Christmas bread that’s rich, buttery, and filled with dried fruits, nuts, and marzipan. This festive bread, also known as Christstollen, is typically dusted with powdered sugar, making it look like a snowy holiday treat. With its unique flavors and tender crumb, Stollen is the perfect addition to any holiday celebration.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed (110°F)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

For the Filling

• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, and dried cranberries)
• 1/4 cup candied orange peel
• 1/4 cup candied lemon peel
• 1/4 cup dark rum or orange juice
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds or other nuts
• 7 oz marzipan, rolled into a log

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dried Fruit

1. In a small bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, candied orange peel, candied lemon peel, and rum (or orange juice). Let the mixture soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight for better flavor.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, ground cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg.
2. Add the warmed milk, softened butter, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Add the Fruit and Nuts

1. Once the dough has risen, gently knead in the soaked dried fruits and chopped almonds until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Shape the Stollen

1. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches.
2. Place the marzipan log in the center of the dough, lengthwise.
3. Fold one side of the dough over the marzipan, then fold the other side over, slightly overlapping, to create a traditional stollen shape.
4. Pinch the edges to seal and place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

1. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffy.

Step 6: Bake the Stollen

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the stollen for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 7: Brush with Butter and Add Powdered Sugar

1. While the stollen is still warm, brush it generously with melted butter.
2. Let it cool slightly, then dust it heavily with powdered sugar. Once completely cooled, dust it again with more powdered sugar for a snowy effect.

Step 8: Serve

1. Slice the stollen and serve it at room temperature. Enjoy with coffee or tea.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Fruit Soaking: For the best flavor, soak the dried fruits overnight in rum or orange juice.
• Marzipan: The marzipan adds a lovely sweet surprise in the center of the stollen. You can omit it if desired, but it’s highly recommended for an authentic taste.
• Storage: Wrap the stollen tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. It actually tastes better after a few days as the flavors meld together.

Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit the chopped almonds if you prefer a nut-free version.
• Citrus Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated lemon or orange zest to the dough for extra citrus flavor.
• Chocolate Stollen: Add 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make Stollen Ahead of Time?

Yes, stollen can be made ahead of time and actually improves in flavor as it sits. It can be stored for up to 2 weeks at room temperature when wrapped tightly.

2. How Do I Store Stollen?

Wrap the stollen in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

3. Can I Use Other Dried Fruits?

Yes, you can use your favorite dried fruits, such as apricots, figs, or cherries, to customize the flavor.

4. Is Stollen Similar to Fruitcake?

Stollen is similar to fruitcake in that it contains dried fruits and nuts, but it is less dense and has a softer, more bread-like texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Breakfast: Serve slices of stollen as part of a festive holiday breakfast or brunch.
• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy stollen with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
• Gift Idea: Wrap stollen in parchment paper and tie with a festive ribbon for a homemade holiday gift.

Authentic German Stollen is a wonderful holiday treat that’s rich in flavor and tradition. With its buttery dough, sweet dried fruits, and marzipan center, this stollen is perfect for celebrating the festive season. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or giving it as a gift, this traditional German bread is sure to bring warmth and joy to your holidays. Give this recipe a try, and experience the delightful taste of a classic German Christmas!