Stollen is a rich and festive German bread traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season. It is packed with dried fruits, nuts, and marzipan, all enveloped in a buttery, slightly sweet dough. Here’s how to make it at home.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cardamom or cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1 cup (150 g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, candied orange peel)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) dark rum or orange juice (for soaking)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) chopped almonds or walnuts
- 7 oz (200 g) marzipan (optional, for a traditional stollen)
For Finishing:
- 1/4 cup (60 g) melted butter
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar