1. Prepare the Fruits:
- In a bowl, soak the dried fruits in rum or orange juice for at least 2 hours or overnight. This ensures the fruit is plump and flavorful.
2. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with 1 tsp of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and spices. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Incorporate the Filling:
- Drain the soaked fruits and pat them dry. Knead the fruits and nuts into the dough until evenly distributed.
5. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Stollen:
- Roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches. If using marzipan, roll it into a log and place it in the center of the rectangle. Fold the dough over the marzipan and seal the edges, shaping it into a traditional stollen loaf.
7. Second Rise:
- Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it lightly with a cloth and let it rise for 30-40 minutes.
8. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the stollen for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
9. Finish the Stollen:
- While the bread is still warm, brush it generously with melted butter. Sift powdered sugar over the top, coating it completely. Repeat this step to create a thick, festive sugar coating.
10. Cool and Store:
- Let the stollen cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. For the best flavor, let it rest for a day or two to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips:
- Storage: Stollen can be stored for up to 2 weeks and often tastes better as it ages. Keep it wrapped tightly at room temperature.
- Variations: Substitute different nuts or dried fruits to suit your taste.
- Marzipan-Free Option: Skip the marzipan for a simpler, more bread-like stollen.
Enjoy this delightful holiday treat with a cup of coffee or mulled wine!