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Christmas Stollen: A Beloved German Holiday Dessert
When the holiday season approaches, one treat stands out as a quintessential part of German Christmas traditions: Stollen. This fruit-filled, powdered sugar-dusted bread has been a festive favorite for centuries, symbolizing the warmth and joy of the holiday season. Whether you’ve experienced its rich flavors firsthand or are curious about this European classic, making Christmas Stollen at home is a delightful way to embrace the spirit of Christmas.
A Brief History of Stollen
Stollen originated in Germany during the 15th century as a modest Advent bread, made with simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and water. Over time, the recipe evolved, becoming richer and more luxurious with the addition of butter, nuts, dried fruits, and spices. Traditionally, the bread is shaped to resemble the Baby Jesus wrapped in swaddling clothes, with a blanket of powdered sugar symbolizing purity and snow.
Today, Dresden Stollen (or Dresdner Christstollen) is among the most famous varieties, earning a protected status similar to Champagne or Parmesan cheese.
Why You’ll Love Christmas Stollen
- Rich in Flavor: Packed with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, every bite offers a burst of holiday cheer.
- Festive Presentation: The snowy coating of powdered sugar makes it a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table.
- Traditionally Homemade: Baking Stollen at home allows you to customize it to your taste and add your own festive touch.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Christmas Stollen:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 cup warm milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cardamom (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
Add-Ins:
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped apricots, or cranberries)
- ½ cup candied citrus peel
- ½ cup chopped almonds or walnuts
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2–3 tbsp rum (optional, for soaking the dried fruits)
For the Filling:
- ⅓ cup marzipan (rolled into a log, optional)
For Finishing:
- ¼ cup melted butter (for brushing)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
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