Stollen – recipesshubb

Homemade Stollen: A Traditional Holiday Bread

Stollen is a classic German fruit bread that is especially popular during the winter holidays. Rich, lightly sweet, and filled with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, homemade Stollen is a festive treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its signature shape and snowy coating of powdered sugar make it instantly recognizable and perfect for celebrations.

Making Stollen at home may seem intimidating, but with a little patience and care, it is very achievable. The result is a fragrant, tender bread that tastes even better after resting for a few days, allowing the flavors to deepen and blend.

What Is Stollen?

Stollen is a yeast-based bread traditionally made with butter, milk, dried fruits, citrus peel, nuts, and spices. It is often folded over itself to create a shape said to resemble a swaddled baby, symbolizing the Christmas season. While many versions exist, the most common types include fruit Stollen and marzipan Stollen.

Unlike regular sweet breads, Stollen is richer and denser, closer to a cake-like loaf. It is typically dusted generously with powdered sugar, which helps preserve the bread and adds sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Dough

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
¾ cup warm milk
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Fruit and Nuts

¾ cup raisins
½ cup dried cranberries or currants
⅓ cup chopped almonds
¼ cup candied citrus peel
Zest of 1 lemon

For Finishing

¼ cup melted butter
Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.

2. Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the softened butter, egg, vanilla extract, and activated yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. Add the Fruit and Nuts

Gently knead the raisins, dried cranberries, almonds, candied citrus peel, and lemon zest into the dough until evenly distributed. This may take a few minutes, as the dough will be quite full.

4. First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Stollen

Punch down the dough and roll it into an oval shape. Fold one long side slightly over the other to create the traditional Stollen shape. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.

6. Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Stollen for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. If it browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.

7. Finish with Butter and Sugar

While the Stollen is still warm, brush generously with melted butter. Dust heavily with powdered sugar. Once cooled, dust again for a thick, snowy coating.

Serving Suggestions

Stollen is best served in thin slices and pairs beautifully with:

Hot tea or coffee
Warm milk or hot chocolate
Fresh fruit on the side

Traditionally, Stollen is wrapped and stored for several days before serving, which allows the flavors to mature and improves the texture.

Storage Tips

Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap
Store at room temperature for up to 1 week
For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze

Stollen often tastes better after resting for 2–3 days.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Stollen

Do not rush the rising time: Slow rises improve flavor
Use softened butter, not melted: This keeps the dough tender
Dust generously with powdered sugar: It helps preserve freshness
Slice gently: A serrated knife works best

Final Thoughts

Homemade Stollen is more than just a bread—it’s a holiday tradition filled with warmth and history. With its rich dough, festive fruits, and sweet powdered finish, it brings comfort and celebration to any table. Baking Stollen at home is a rewarding experience and a wonderful way to share something special with family and friends.