Traditional Christmas Stollen Recipe

Christmas isn’t complete without Stollen, a festive, fruit-filled bread dusted with powdered sugar that resembles freshly fallen snow. This German holiday classic is packed with dried fruits, nuts, and a hint of warm spices, making it a centerpiece of any holiday spread. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee, gifting it to loved ones, or simply indulging in the festive spirit, this recipe is a delicious way to celebrate the season.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 package (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup whole milk (warm)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ½ cup chopped almonds or walnuts
• ½ cup candied citrus peel
• ½ cup golden raisins or dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons rum or orange juice (for soaking the dried fruit)

For Finishing:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Preparation Tips

• Soak the dried fruit: Soaking the fruit in rum or orange juice enhances the flavor and keeps it moist.

• Knead thoroughly: Proper kneading develops the gluten, giving the stollen its characteristic texture.

• Allow enough rising time: This ensures a soft, airy loaf.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Dried Fruit

In a small bowl, combine the raisins or cranberries and candied citrus peel with the rum or orange juice. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the dough.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.

Step 3: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and cinnamon. Add the yeast mixture, egg, softened butter, vanilla, and lemon zest. Knead until a soft, smooth dough forms, about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a stand mixer. Gently fold in the soaked fruit and nuts.

Step 4: First Rise

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

Step 5: Shape the Stollen

Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll into an oval shape about 12 inches long. Fold one side of the dough over the other to create the traditional stollen shape. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.

Step 7: Bake the Stollen

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool slightly on a wire rack.

Step 8: Finish with Butter and Sugar

Brush the warm stollen generously with melted butter, then dust it with powdered sugar. Repeat this process once more for a thick, snowy coating.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Stollen can be made up to a week in advance and stored tightly wrapped at room temperature. Its flavor improves over time. For longer storage, freeze the loaf wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reapply powdered sugar if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Slice and serve stollen with coffee, tea, or mulled wine for a cozy holiday treat. It also makes a thoughtful gift when wrapped in parchment paper and tied with a festive ribbon.

Conclusion

This Christmas Stollen is a timeless holiday classic, rich in tradition and flavor. With its tender crumb, fruity filling, and snowy topping, it’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your Christmas celebrations. Try it out and explore more festive recipes on Cozy Cadence to make your holiday season even more magical.