DUTCH CHRISTMAS STOLLEN
Dutch Christmas Stollen is a festive bread with dried fruits, nuts, and optional marzipan, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup dried fruits (raisins, currants, candied citrus peel)
- ½ cup slivered almonds
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- ½ cup marzipan (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, egg, vanilla, and almond extracts. Knead until smooth.
- Add Mix-Ins: Fold in dried fruits and almonds. Cover the dough and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the Stollen: Punch down the dough and roll it into an oval. If using marzipan, shape it into a log and place it in the center. Fold the dough over and seal the edges.
- Bake: Place the stollen on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it rise for another 30 minutes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Dust with Sugar: Cool slightly, then dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dough a day in advance, refrigerate it overnight, and bake fresh on the day you plan to serve.
- Customizing the Flavor: Swap almonds with walnuts or pecans. Add a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra holiday warmth.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve slices with butter or jam for breakfast or dessert. Pairs wonderfully with hot cocoa or mulled wine.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.