authentic Dresden Stollen recipe

For an authentic Dresden Stollen recipe, you can explore several excellent sources. Here are a few recommendations:

1. The Daring Gourmet – Offers a thorough recipe with traditional methods and ingredients. View Recipe

2. Dirndl Kitchen – Features a sweet Stollen made with rum-soaked raisins, almonds, and marzipan. View Recipe

3. James & Everett – Provides a flavorful combination of rum-soaked fruits and spices. View Recipe

4. Nigella Lawson – Highlights the celebrated Stollen from Dresden, rich in fruit and butter. View Recipe

These links will guide you to authentic recipes that capture the essence of this traditional German Christmas bread. Enjoy your baking! ### Authentic Dresden Stollen Recipe

Ingredients

• Dried Fruits and Nuts:

  • 2-1/2 cups raisins (600 g)
  • 4 oz candied lemon peel, finely chopped (113 g)
  • 4 oz candied orange peel, finely chopped (113 g)
  • 3.5 oz almonds, ground or finely chopped (100 g)

• Dough:

  • 8 cups all-purpose flour (1 kg)
  • 1-2 cups milk (250-500 ml)
  • 2 packages dry yeast (or 2 cubes of fresh yeast)
  • 1 cup sugar (200 g)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Grated rind of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mace or nutmeg
  • 1 lb unsalted butter (453.6 g)

• For Coating:

  • Unsalted butter for brushing
  • Confectioner’s sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare the Raisins:

   • Soak the raisins in rum overnight to enhance their flavor.

2. Make the Dough:

   • In a large bowl, combine flour, milk, yeast, sugar, salt, and butter to form a smooth yeast dough.
   • Gradually incorporate the soaked raisins, almonds, candied lemon and orange peel, mace, and any additional spices, kneading thoroughly after each addition.

3. First Rise:

   • Let the dough rest for about 1 hour in a warm place until it has doubled in size.

4. Shape the Stollen:

   • Knead the dough again, divide it into two equal portions, and shape each into a loaf.

5. Second Rise:

   • Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another hour.

6. Bake:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the loaves for about 1 hour or until golden brown.

7. Finish:

   • After baking, brush the loaves with melted butter and dust generously with confectioner’s sugar.

8. Storage:

   • Allow the Stollen to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in a cool, dark place for several weeks, allowing the flavors to develop.

Tips for Authenticity

• Aging: For the best flavor, let the Stollen rest for at least a week before slicing.
• Variations: Consider adding marzipan for a richer taste, or experiment with different dried fruits and nuts based on your preference.
• Serving: Serve slices with butter or enjoy them plain as a festive treat.

This recipe captures the essence of traditional Dresden Stollen, making it a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations!