Stollen

Stollen with candied fruits and marzipan

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 2-3 hours
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 3 loaves

Stollen is a traditional German bread often associated with winter holidays. This fluffy delight, filled with candied fruits, nuts, and marzipan, was originally created as a symbol of the birth of Christ. Over the years, the recipe has diversified, and today there are numerous variations. This version, inspired by the famous Martha Stewart, has a rich taste and an unmistakable aroma!

Ingredients:

- 700-800 g flour
- 50 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 240 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated for a more intense flavor)
- 200 g butter (melted and cooled)
- 2 packets dry yeast
- 3 eggs (beaten)
- Grated zest of one lemon and one orange
- 2 tablespoons orange jam (for extra flavor)

For the filling:

- 50 g cranberries
- 100 g black raisins
- 100 g golden raisins
- 50 g candied blueberries
- 100 g dried apricots
- 200 g walnuts (coarsely chopped)
- 100 g almonds (chopped)

Extra:

- Butter (for greasing)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, except for the milk, which should be lukewarm. You can also use other dried or candied fruits, such as dates or prunes.

2. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk, adding the sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to ensure the yeast is active and will make the dough rise.

3. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt, nutmeg, and grated lemon and orange zest. These flavors will give your bread a wonderful taste.

4. Combining the ingredients: Make a well in the flour mixture and add the melted butter, beaten eggs, and the yeast mixture. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to combine the ingredients. When the dough becomes thicker, start kneading with your hands.

5. Kneading the dough: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If it is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

6. Adding the fruits and nuts: Incorporate the dried fruits, nuts, and almonds into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed. This step will add an interesting texture and rich flavor.

7. Rising: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in volume.

8. Shaping the loaves: Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured work surface. Divide the dough into three equal parts. Take the first piece and roll it out with a rolling pin, not too thin. Place a log of marzipan in the center. You can do this by cutting the marzipan in half lengthwise so that it fits the entire length of the dough.

9. Rolling and arranging: Carefully roll the dough, ensuring the marzipan stays well wrapped. Place it in a baking pan lined with parchment paper. Repeat the process with the other portions of dough.

10. Final resting: Cover the loaves with a clean towel and let them rest for another 1-2 hours until they increase in volume.

11. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the loaves for 30-40 minutes, or until they are golden and sound hollow when you tap them lightly on the bottom.

12. Finishing: When they are ready, let them cool slightly, then brush them with melted butter and generously dust with powdered sugar.

Serving suggestions: The Stollen is delicious served plain, but you can also add a cup of tea or hot chocolate for an unforgettable experience. It is a perfect dessert to enjoy during the holidays or at a gathering with friends.

Tips and variations: You can experiment with different combinations of dried fruits or add spices like cinnamon to vary the flavor. You can also replace the marzipan with a chocolate filling for a decadent stollen.

Nutritional benefits: Stollen is a good source of carbohydrates and, thanks to the fruits and nuts, provides vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. Consuming it in moderation allows you to enjoy a delicious taste without significantly affecting your diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture and taste may vary.

2. How can I store the stollen? You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. It can also be frozen to be enjoyed later.

3. Is stollen suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe by using vegan butter and replacing the eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal.

This Stollen with candied fruits and marzipan is not just a dessert but a true culinary experience. Whether you make it for the holidays or to treat yourself, it will bring you joy and unforgettable flavors! I hope you enjoy this recipe and bring a touch of magic to your kitchen!

 Ingredients: 700-800 g flour 50 g sugar 1 teaspoon salt 240 ml warm milk 1 teaspoon nutmeg 200 g butter 2 packets dry yeast 3 beaten eggs grated zest of one lemon and one orange 2 tablespoons orange jam Dried fruits: 50 g cranberries 100 g black raisins 100 g golden raisins 50 g candied blueberries 100 g apricots 200 g coarsely chopped walnuts 100 g chopped almonds Extra: butter Powdered sugar

 Tags:  stollen fruit cake