Traditional Christmas Stollen

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Traditional Christmas Stollen.

1. Step 1

   Start by warming some milk in a bowl and gently stir in the active dry yeast.

2. Step 2

   Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it transforms into a creamy, frothy delight.

3. Step 3

   In a large mixing bowl, combine your yeast mixture with 2 cups of bread flour, a sprinkle of white sugar, softened butter, a beaten egg, and a pinch of salt.

4. Step 4

   Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.

5. Step 5

   Now, it’s time to bring the dough to life! Gradually add the remaining flour, about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition until the dough starts to come together beautifully.

6. Step 6

   Once your dough is ready, transfer it to a lightly floured surface.

7. Step 7

   Here’s where the fun begins: knead in the diced candied citron, currants, golden raisins, and quartered cherries.

8. Step 8

   Keep kneading until the dough feels smooth and elastic, which should take about 8 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Now, lightly oil a large bowl and place your dough inside, turning it to coat with the oil.

10. Step 10

    Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which will take around 1 hour.

11. Step 11

    While you wait, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet to prepare for the deliciousness to come.

12. Step 12

    Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.

13. Step 13

    Roll the marzipan into a rope and place it right in the center of your dough.

14. Step 14

    Fold the dough over the marzipan and pinch the seams to seal it in, creating a delightful surprise for later.

15. Step 15

    Now, place the loaf seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet.

16. Step 16

    Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise again until it doubles in size, which should take about 40 minutes.

17. Step 17

    When you’re ready to bake, pop the stollen into your preheated oven for 10 minutes.

18. Step 18

    After that, reduce the temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue baking for another 30 to 40 minutes, or until the loaf turns a lovely golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

19. Step 19

    Once baked to perfection, allow the stollen to cool on a wire rack.

20. Step 20

    When it’s completely cool, give it a generous dusting of confectioners' sugar and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for that extra touch of sweetness.

21. Step 21

    Enjoy the delightful aroma and flavors of your homemade stollen, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring all on your own!.