Time and Servings:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
- Servings: 12 slices
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 25g
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, and candied orange peel)
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional)
- 1/4 cup dark rum (for soaking fruits)
For Finishing:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fruits:
- In a small bowl, soak the mixed dried fruits in dark rum for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for enhanced flavor).
2. Activate Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Make the Dough:
- Add sugar, softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Incorporate the Fruits:
- Drain the soaked fruits and gently knead them, along with the chopped almonds, into the dough.
6. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. Shape the Stollen:
- Punch down the dough and shape it into an oval.
- Fold one side over the other to create the traditional stollen shape. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Second Rise:
- Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
9. Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the stollen for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
10. Finish:
- While the stollen is still warm, brush it generously with melted butter.
- Dust with powdered sugar until well coated. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Soak the Fruits: Soaking the dried fruits overnight enhances their flavor and texture, making the bread richer.
- Perfect Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but not sticky. Add flour gradually to avoid over-drying.
- Storage: Stollen tastes better after a few days as the flavors meld. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and store in a cool place.
- Alternative Glazing: For added flavor, mix powdered sugar with a dash of cinnamon before dusting the stollen.
Wine, Cocktail, or Drink Pairing:
- Pair this festive bread with a warm mug of mulled wine, spiced tea, or a glass of eggnog for the ultimate holiday experience.