Delicious Christmas Stollen Recipe for the Holidays

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast followed by the warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Next, add the softened butter, eggs, and remaining ingredients. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for approximately 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, usually about 1 to 1.5 hours.

While the dough is rising, combine the dried fruits, chopped almonds, candied citrus peel, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Add the rum or orange juice to moisten the mixture. Set it aside to soak and develop flavors.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the fruit and nut filling evenly over the surface.

Fold the dough over, creating a log shape, and place it seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to rise again for about 30 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Bake the stollen for 30-35 minutes or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Once baked, remove the stollen from the oven and brush it with melted butter. Then sprinkle liberally with powdered sugar while it is still warm.

Allow it to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your delicious Christmas stollen with family and friends!