When I think of the holidays, the scent of warm spices wafting from the kitchen instantly brings a smile to my face. Imagine filling your home with the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a medley of rich fruits and nuts—there’s nothing quite like it. That’s exactly what this Christmas Stollen recipe delivers: a delightful fruit and nut bread that embodies the essence of festive gatherings and cozy family moments.
I stumbled across this recipe during a snowy December afternoon, as I was craving something special to share at our annual holiday party. What began as a spontaneous kitchen adventure quickly turned into a cherished tradition that my friends and family look forward to every year. With its beautiful texture, enticing flavors, and ease of preparation, this Stollen is not just a treat for the palate—it’s a centerpiece that brings joy and togetherness to any occasion.
So, if you’re tired of the usual fast food and want something that truly captures the spirit of the season, let’s roll up our sleeves and bring this delightful bread to life!
Why is Christmas Stollen so special?
Unique flavors: This recipe blends a captivating mix of dried fruits, nuts, and aromatic spices that come together in perfect harmony.
Festive tradition: Baking and sharing Stollen is a heartwarming holiday ritual, perfect for family gatherings.
Easy prep: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can enjoy the fun of creating this delicious bread!
Crowd pleaser: Its delightful taste makes it an instant hit at any holiday gathering, sparking smiles all around.
Versatile enjoyment: Serve it as breakfast, a snack, or a stunning dessert at celebrations—this Stollen fits every occasion!
Long-lasting: With proper storage, this flavorful bread stays fresh for days, allowing you to savor its goodness longer.
Christmas Stollen Ingredients
• Prepare to fill your home with festive scents and flavors as we dive into the essentials for our heartwarming Christmas Stollen!
For the Fruit Mixture
- Dark Raisins – 1/3 cup adds a rich and sweet depth.
- Golden Raisins – 1/3 cup provides a delightful pop of color and sweetness.
- Currants – 1/2 cup brings a tart flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Candied Orange Peel – 1/2 cup (or apricots) offers a zesty, chewy bite.
- Dried Cranberries or Tart Dried Fruit – 2/3 cup adds a tart contrast, enhancing the overall flavor.
For the Dough
- Whole Almonds – 1 cup, with or without skins, gives a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Dark Rum or Brandy – 1/2 cup enhances the richness and deep flavors of the fruit.
- Orange Juice – 1/4 cup adds a fresh citrus note that brightens every bite.
- All-Purpose Flour – 5 cups (600g) divided is the base that holds this Stollen together.
- Instant Dry Yeast – 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) ensures a perfect rise for that fluffy texture.
- Warm Milk – 1 1/4 cups activates the yeast and enriches the dough.
- Kosher Salt – 1 teaspoon balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Ground Cardamom – 1/2 teaspoon infuses a warm, aromatic spice profile.
- Ground Cloves – 1/4 teaspoon brings an inviting warmth that screams holiday cheer.
- Ground Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon adds a cozy, fragrant touch reminiscent of holiday baking.
- Lemon Zest – Finely grated zest of 1 lemon brightens the flavors with a zing of freshness.
For the Enrichment
- Unsalted Butter – 1 cup (2 sticks), softened at room temperature, adds richness and moisture.
- Large Egg Yolks – 2, at room temperature, create a tender crumb and rich color.
- Sugar – 1/3 cup sweetens the dough beautifully.
- Oil – 2 teaspoons to coat the bowl, preventing the dough from sticking.
For the Topping
- Sugar for Topping – 1/2 cup creates a sweet, crunchy contrast once baked.
- Ground Ginger – 1 teaspoon adds a warm, spicy kick.
- Nutmeg – 1/8 teaspoon enhances the warm spice profile for the topping.
- Unsalted Butter (melted) – 6 tablespoons to brush over the loaves, ensuring golden-brown perfection.
- Powdered Sugar – About 1 cup, for serving, adds a sweet finishing touch.
Gather these delightful ingredients, and let’s start baking a batch of Christmas cheer that will warm your heart and home!
How to Make Christmas Stollen
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Soak fruit: In a medium bowl, combine all the dried fruit, dark rum or brandy, and orange juice. Let it soak overnight, or for a quick fix, microwave for 2 minutes, then cover and let soak for at least 1 hour.
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Mix sponge: In the stand mixer bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and instant dry yeast. Set the mixer to low speed until well combined.
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Add milk: Pour in warm milk and increase the mixer speed to medium-high for about one minute to create a frothy sponge.
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Rise sponge: Cover the sponge with plastic wrap and place it in a warm area to rise for one hour until it’s bubbly and doubled in size.
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Blend dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining 3 cups of flour, kosher salt, ground cardamom, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg.
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Combine sponge and zest: Return the sponge to the mixer, set it to medium speed, and add the finely grated lemon zest. Mix well to integrate.
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Incorporate butter: Gradually add the softened butter while continuing to mix until everything is nicely blended. Then, add the large egg yolks and sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
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Knead dough: Switch the mixer to low speed and gradually add 2 1/2 cups of the flour mixture until the dough becomes stiff. Change to the dough hook attachment and knead on low speed for about 4 to 6 minutes, adding the remaining flour 2 tablespoons at a time.
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Let dough rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, turning it to coat. Cover and allow to rise in a warm place for about 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in size.
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Mix in fruit and nuts: Drain the soaked fruit, and knead it along with the whole almonds into the dough until evenly distributed. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
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Prepare baking sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
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Shape loaves: Shape each piece into an 8-inch round, folding and tapering the shape into an oval with a ridge on top. Place them on the prepared sheets, keeping 3 inches apart.
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Final rise: Cover the loaves loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise until doubled, which should take about 1 hour.
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Preheat oven: About 20 minutes before the loaves finish rising, preheat your oven to 350°F.
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Bake loaves: Bake the loaves for 25 minutes, then swap and rotate the pans and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown and an instant-read thermometer reads 190°F in the center.
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Cool down: Remove the loaves from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
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Add topping: In a small bowl, mix the sugar with ground ginger and nutmeg. Brush the loaves with melted butter and generously sprinkle with spiced sugar for a delightful finish.
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Store: Wrap the cooled loaves in plastic wrap and then in foil. Store them in a cool, dry place for at least 3 days before cutting—up to 2 weeks for the best flavor! Don’t forget to dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Optional: For an extra festive touch, add a sprinkle of chopped nuts as garnish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Christmas Stollen?
Imagine a cozy gathering with delightful flavors and aromas filling the air, perfectly complementing your festive bread.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture and buttery taste enhance the richness of the Stollen, providing a comforting side.
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Glazed Carrots: The sweet glaze on tender carrots adds a delightful contrast to the spices in the Stollen, brightening the entire meal.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm apple cider infused with cinnamon and nutmeg creates a cozy beverage that echoes the flavors of your bread.
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Cheese Selection: Offer a variety of cheeses, like aged cheddar or creamy brie, to provide a savory balance to the sweet Stollen.
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Roast Turkey: Tender and succulent turkey complements the heartiness of the bread, making it a delightful centerpiece for any holiday feast.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and bring a light, zesty counterpoint to the dense Stollen.
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Chocolate Fondue: For an indulgent dessert option, serve rich chocolate fondue with fresh fruits and the Stollen for dipping—it’s a sweet finish!
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Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, eggnog pairs beautifully, offering a holiday classic that rounds off your festive spread.
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Winter Spiced Cookies: A sweet touch, these cookies echo the Spiced flavors present in the Stollen, making them a perfect holiday treat.
Christmas Stollen Variations
Feel free to customize this delightful Christmas Stollen recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. Just adjust the liquid slightly for the right dough consistency.
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Nuts Swap: Try walnuts or pecans in place of almonds for a different crunch and flavor profile. Each nut brings its unique warmth and character to the Stollen!
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Fruit Medley: Substitute the dried fruit with your favorites like chopped figs or apricots for an exciting twist. Mix and match for a colorful surprise in every bite.
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Spice it Up: Add a dash of allspice or even a hint of cayenne pepper for an unexpected kick. It’s a fun way to make your Stollen uniquely flavorful!
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Vegan Option: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs or aquafaba instead of egg yolks. Your Stollen can still be fluffy and delicious while being plant-based.
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Dairy-Free Milk: Swap the warm milk for almond or oat milk for a creamy texture without the dairy. This keeps the bread moist without compromising flavor.
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Booze-Free: Omit the rum or brandy and replace it with extra orange juice for a zesty punch. You won’t miss the alcohol but will still enjoy the delightful fruit flavors!
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Zesty Finish: Infuse a bit of lemon or orange zest into the topping sugar for an added zest that complements the bread beautifully. It’s a refreshing touch for any holiday table.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Stollen are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can soak the dried fruits in rum and orange juice up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the dough and let it rise the day before baking—simply store it in the refrigerator after the first rise for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, take the dough out to adjust to room temperature, shape the loaves, let them rise again, and then bake as usual. This way, you’re guaranteed Stollen that’s just as delicious, with minimal effort on the day of your celebration!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Stollen
Room Temperature: Store wrapped Christmas Stollen in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks for optimal flavor.
Fridge: Although not recommended for long-term storage, if you live in a very warm climate, you may keep it in the fridge for about 1 week. Ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wrapped loaves for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to maintain moisture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat slices in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or toast lightly for a fresh-baked flavor.
Tips for the Best Christmas Stollen
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Soaking Time Matters: Ensure your fruit is soaked long enough; this helps intensify flavors. Overnight is best, but at least 1 hour will suffice.
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Perfect Dough Consistency: Be mindful not to add too much flour too quickly. The dough should be slightly sticky yet manageable for the best texture in your Christmas Stollen.
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Kneading Technique: Knead gently but thoroughly. Over-kneading can lead to a tough bread, while under-kneading prevents proper gluten development.
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Proper Dough Rising: Keep the dough in a warm environment to rise properly. A chilly kitchen can hinder its growth, so use a warm oven (turned off) if necessary.
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Test for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to check; the internal temperature should reach 190°F. This ensures your Stollen is perfectly baked inside.
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Cooling and Storage: Be patient and let the loaves cool before wrapping them. Proper cooling allows flavors to develop and prevents sogginess.
Christmas Stollen Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right dried fruits for my Stollen?
Absolutely! For a vibrant and flavorful Christmas Stollen, opt for plump, high-quality dried fruits. Look for raisins and currants without dark spots or excessive stickiness, which can indicate they are past their prime. When selecting candied orange peel, make sure it’s chewy and not too hard or crystallized.
What’s the best way to store Christmas Stollen?
Very simple! Wrap your Christmas Stollen in plastic wrap and then in foil to keep it fresh. Store it in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks. If you need to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and it’ll stay good for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Christmas Stollen?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Stollen, first wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for added protection. This prevents moisture loss and freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the wrapped Stollen in the refrigerator overnight, and it’ll be just as delicious as the day you baked it!
What should I do if my Stollen didn’t rise properly?
Oh no! If your Christmas Stollen didn’t rise as expected, it could be due to inactive yeast or an environment that’s too cool. First, check your yeast’s expiration date before using, and ensure the warm milk is not too hot, as this can kill the yeast. For a better environment, try placing the dough in a warm oven (turned off), which can help create a perfect rising spot!
Are there any dietary considerations for this Stollen recipe?
Yes, indeed! This Christmas Stollen contains nuts (almonds), rum, and dairy (butter and milk), so keep that in mind if you’re serving guests with allergies. For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the rum or brandy with apple juice or an extra splash of orange juice. You can also substitute almond flour for those with nut allergies, but be mindful that it will alter the texture slightly.
Ultimate Christmas Stollen: A Festive Family Recipe Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak fruit: Combine all dried fruit, dark rum or brandy, and orange juice in a bowl. Let it soak overnight, or microwave for 2 minutes and cover for at least 1 hour.
- Mix sponge: In stand mixer bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and instant dry yeast on low speed.
- Add milk: Pour in warm milk and increase mixer speed to medium-high for about one minute.
- Rise sponge: Cover sponge and let rise in a warm area for one hour.
- Blend dry ingredients: Whisk together the remaining 3 cups of flour, kosher salt, ground cardamom, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg.
- Combine sponge and zest: Add finely grated lemon zest to the sponge and mix well.
- Incorporate butter: Gradually add softened butter, then add large egg yolks and sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Knead dough: Add 2 1/2 cups of flour mixture gradually until dough becomes stiff, then knead on low speed for 4 to 6 minutes.
- Let dough rise: Shape into a ball, place in oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 1/2 hours.
- Mix in fruit and nuts: Drain soaked fruit and knead into dough with whole almonds.
- Prepare baking sheets: Line two sheets with parchment paper and divide dough into 4 equal pieces.
- Shape loaves: Shape each piece into an 8-inch round and place on prepared sheets.
- Final rise: Cover loaves loosely and let them rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F about 20 minutes before finishing rising.
- Bake loaves: Bake for 25 minutes, rotate pans, and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
- Cool down: Remove from oven, cool on sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
- Add topping: Mix sugar with ground ginger and nutmeg; brush loaves with melted butter and sprinkle with spiced sugar.
- Store: Wrap cooled loaves in plastic wrap and foil for at least 3 days before cutting.