German Stollen Christmas bread

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

• 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup dark rum

• 1/2 cup raisins

• 1/2 cup currants

• 1/4 cup candied orange peel

• 1/4 cup candied lemon peel

• 1/2 cup almonds, chopped

• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom

• 1/4 tsp ground mace

• 4 oz marzipan (optional)

• Additional butter and powdered sugar for topping

Instructions

① Soak the Fruits: In a small bowl, combine the raisins, currants, and candied peel. Pour the rum over the mixture, stir, and soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible.

② Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk and dissolve a pinch of sugar in it. Add yeast and let it activate. Combine flour, sugar, salt, butter, eggs, and spices. Knead until smooth.

③ Add Fruits and First Rise: Add the soaked fruits and almonds. Cover the dough and let it rise until doubled.

④ Shape the Stollen: Flatten dough, place marzipan in the center, fold, and shape. Let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

⑤ Bake and Butter Topping: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes. Brush with melted butter and dust with powdered sugar.

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