The Infamous Stollen Recipe Revealed – A Classic Holiday Tradition!

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture. Mix everything together until a dough starts to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Add the Fruits and Nuts:

Once the dough is kneaded, incorporate the dried mixed fruit, candied citrus peel (if using), and nuts into the dough. If using rum, drizzle it over the dough at this stage and knead it in.
Let the Dough Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Stollen:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove the air. Roll the dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Place the marzipan (or almond paste) in the center, folding the dough over it to encase the marzipan. Fold the dough over once more, creating a slight hump on one side (traditional Stollen shape).
Second Rise and Baking:

Place the shaped Stollen on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow it to rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Stollen for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Finish and Serve:

Remove the Stollen from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, generously dust the top with powdered sugar. The Stollen is now ready to serve!
Serving and Storage Tips: