How to Make a Traditional Stollen

How to Make a Traditional Stollen

Stollen is a traditional German Christmas bread that is rich, fruity, and filled with marzipan, making it a beloved festive treat. Originating from Dresden, this sweet yeast bread is often dusted with powdered sugar and served during the holiday season. The preparation process is straightforward but requires patience as the dough needs time to rise properly. Here’s how you can make an authentic stollen at home:

Ingredients:

• For the dough:
  • 500g all-purpose flour
  • 100g sugar
  • 10g salt
  • 10g active dry yeast
  • 250ml milk, lukewarm
  • 200g unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 250g mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants)
  • 100g chopped candied orange peel
  • 100g chopped candied lemon peel
  • 100g chopped almonds or mixed nuts
  • 50g chopped glacé cherries (optional)
  • 200g marzipan, cut into a log shape
• For the topping:
  • 100g unsalted butter, melted
  • 100g powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

   • In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes frothy.

2. Mix the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add the lemon zest, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the softened butter. Mix the ingredients with a spoon until they form a rough dough.

3. Knead the Dough:

   • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step. Once kneaded, form the dough into a ball.

4. Add the Fruits and Nuts:

   • Flatten the dough into a large rectangle, and then spread the dried fruit, candied peels, almonds, and cherries (if using) evenly over the surface. Fold the dough over to enclose the filling, and then knead the dough again for about 3-4 minutes to ensure the fruit and nuts are well incorporated.

5. Let the Dough Rise:

   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

6. Shape the Stollen:

   • Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and transfer it onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large oval shape. Take the marzipan log and place it lengthwise down the center of the dough. Fold one side of the dough over the marzipan and then fold the other side over it, leaving one side slightly higher than the other. This is the traditional stollen shape, where one side is higher, resembling a folded-over shape to symbolize the baby Jesus wrapped in swaddling clothes.

7. Second Rise:

   • Place the shaped stollen onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.

8. Bake the Stollen:

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the stollen has risen, bake it for 35-45 minutes, or until it is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the stollen starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

9. Prepare the Topping:

   • While the stollen is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Once the stollen is out of the oven, brush the melted butter all over the hot bread. Immediately sprinkle it with powdered sugar, making sure it covers the surface generously.

10. Cool and Serve:

    • Let the stollen cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, it is traditionally wrapped in parchment paper and stored in an airtight container for at least a day or two to allow the flavors to develop. The bread can be kept for several weeks and improves in flavor over time.

Stollen is best enjoyed sliced, often with a cup of tea or coffee. The marzipan center adds richness, while the fruit and nuts provide a delightful texture and flavor. This festive treat is a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations, and its wonderful aroma will fill your kitchen with the spirit of Christmas.