Traditional German Christmas Stollen with Rum-Soaked Raisins

Name: Traditional German Christmas Stollen with Rum-Soaked Raisins
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 500g all-purpose flour; 100g sugar; 200ml milk, warmed; 100g unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 10g active dry yeast; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 200g mixed dried fruits; 100g almonds, chopped; 100g rum-soaked raisins; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Festive Feast Ideas

Experience the holiday spirit with this delightful Traditional German Christmas Stollen, enriched with rum-soaked raisins and a blend of warm spices. Perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T23:23:51.062Z

Stollen is a traditional German bread that is typically enjoyed during the Christmas season. This recipe incorporates rum-soaked raisins for a moist texture and rich flavor that evokes holiday cheer.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that fill your kitchen with warmth
Rich and moist cake with a delightful crunch from nuts
Perfectly festive for holiday gatherings and gift-giving

      

A Taste of Tradition

Traditional German Christmas Stollen is more than just a festive treat; it's a cherished symbol of holiday celebrations. Originating from the 15th century, this fruit-filled bread has evolved over time, incorporating rich flavors and ingredients that reflect the spirit of the season. Each bite offers a taste of history, bringing together families and friends in joyous gatherings.

The unique blend of spices, combined with the sweetness of dried fruits and the richness of rum-soaked raisins, creates an unforgettable flavor profile. This recipe captures the essence of the holiday spirit, making it the perfect addition to your Christmas festivities.

The Art of Stollen Making

Making Stollen is a delightful process that invites you into the kitchen, filling the air with warm, inviting aromas. The careful combination of ingredients, from the warm milk and yeast to the fragrant spices, sets the stage for a rich and flavorful cake. Kneading the dough becomes a meditative act, as you transform simple ingredients into a festive masterpiece.

Allowing the dough to rise is where the magic happens, as it doubles in size and develops its texture. This patience pays off when you finally shape the Stollen and watch it transform in the oven into a golden-brown delight.

Serving Suggestions

Once baked and dusted with powdered sugar, your Stollen is ready to shine at the center of your holiday table. Serve it sliced, allowing guests to appreciate the beautiful layers of fruit and nuts. Pair it with a warm cup of spiced tea or mulled wine for a delightful experience that embodies the essence of Christmas.

For an extra special touch, consider wrapping pieces of Stollen as gifts for neighbors and friends. This thoughtful gesture not only spreads holiday cheer but also shares a taste of your culinary creation, fostering connections and cherished memories.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Stollen:

For the Stollen

500g all-purpose flour
100g sugar
200ml milk, warmed
100g unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
10g active dry yeast
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
200g mixed dried fruits
100g almonds, chopped
100g rum-soaked raisins
Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Stollen:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.

Add Fruits and Nuts

Fold in the rum-soaked raisins, mixed dried fruits, and chopped almonds until evenly distributed. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape the Stollen

Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Second Rise

Cover the shaped dough with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the Stollen for about 60 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow it to cool on a wire rack.

Finish and Serve

Dust the cooled Stollen with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy this festive treat with family and friends!

Serve with tea or coffee for a delightful holiday experience!

Stollen Variations

While the traditional Stollen features a delightful mix of fruits and nuts, feel free to get creative! You can add citrus zest for a refreshing twist or experiment with different types of nuts. For chocolate lovers, incorporating dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder can elevate the sweetness and richness of the bread.

Another popular variation is the marzipan-filled Stollen, which adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making it even more indulgent. Each variation reflects personal preferences and family traditions, ensuring every Stollen is unique.

Storing Your Stollen

To keep your Stollen fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for up to two weeks, but you may find it tastes even better after a few days as the flavors meld together.

For longer storage, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature. This way, you can savor the festive flavors well beyond the holiday season.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best texture and flavor, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. Warm milk helps activate the yeast, while softened butter incorporates more easily into the dough, resulting in a light and fluffy Stollen.

Don’t rush the rising times. Allowing the dough to rise fully is crucial for developing its flavor and texture. A warm, draft-free environment is ideal—consider placing it near a preheated oven or in a warm corner of your kitchen for optimal results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different dried fruits?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots.

→ How can I store leftover Stollen?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can use apple juice or water instead of rum for soaking the raisins.

→ Can I freeze Stollen?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months. Wrap it well in plastic and aluminum foil before freezing.