Delicious Christmas Stollen Recipe for the Holidays

Begin by combining the dried cherries, raisins, cranberries, dried figs, dried apricots, and candied orange peel in a mixing bowl.

Pour enough **rum** to cover the fruits. Alternatively, you may use orange juice. Let them soak for at least **12 hours** or overnight to enhance their flavors.

In a separate large bowl, combine the softened farmer's cheese, flour, sugar, and butter. Use an **electric mixer** on low speed to blend until smooth.

Add in the **soaked dried fruits** along with the soaking liquid. Mix thoroughly until everything is combined.

In a small bowl, whisk together the spices (cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger) with salt, then incorporate this into the dough. Be mindful to mix gently but thoroughly.

Dust a clean surface with flour and transfer the dough onto it. Shape it into a loaf and place it on a lined baking sheet.

Leave enough space around it to allow for rising as it will expand in the oven. Optionally, shape it into a traditional stollen form by making a long oval shape and then folding one side over the other.

Preheat your oven to **180°C (350°F)**. Place the baking sheet with the shaped stollen in the oven and bake for **30-40 minutes** or until it turns a lovely golden brown.

When finished baking, allow it to cool on a wire rack. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar generously to create a festive appearance.

For the perfect holiday look, decorate your stollen with dried orange slices, a sprig of blue spruce, and a cinnamon stick.

Store the stollen in an airtight container for several days to mature. This aging process enhances its flavor, making it even more delightful! Serve it during your festive celebrations!