Cherry And Almond Stollen
When it comes to Christmas baking, there's something special about the aroma of warm spices wafting through the house and the promise of a festive treat that brings joy to the season. One beloved holiday recipe that encapsulates the spirit of Christmas is the Cherry and Almond Stollen. Originating from Germany, this delightful bread-like cake is a classic addition to any holiday spread, with its buttery, rich texture and bursts of fruity sweetness from cherries. Combining the comforting flavors of almond, cinnamon, and rum-soaked fruits, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits with the dark rum. Cover and let soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
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In a small saucepan, warm the milk until it reaches a temperature of around 110°F. Sprinkle the yeast over the warm milk, along with a pinch of sugar, and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the softened butter, almond extract, and lemon zest. Mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
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Drain the soaked fruits and fold them into the dough along with the sliced almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
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Shape the dough into a log shape, tucking the edges under to seal. Place the stollen on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the stollen for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
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Remove the stollen from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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Slice and enjoy the Cherry and Almond Stollen with a cup of tea or mulled wine for a cozy and festive treat that captures the essence of Christmas.
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 slice (100 g)- Calories
- 320 kcal
- Total Fat
- 12 g
- Saturated Fat
- 5 g
- Cholesterol
- 20 mg
- Sodium
- 200 mg
- Total Carbohydrate
- 48 g
- Dietary Fiber
- 3 g
- Sugars
- 20 g
- Protein
- 5 g
Cherry and Almond Stollen is the perfect addition to your holiday table, whether enjoyed for breakfast, as an afternoon delight, or as a sweet indulgence after dinner. The blend of warm spices, crunchy almonds, and sweet cherries creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. So, whip up a batch of this traditional Christmas bake and share the joy and warmth of the season with those you love.