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.

Title: Cherry and Almond Stollen

Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups mixed dried fruits (cherries, raisins, currants)
– ⅓ cup dark rum
– 1 cup milk
– 1 package active dry yeast
– ⅔ cup granulated sugar
– 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 cup sliced almonds
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Drain the soaked fruits and fold them into the dough along with the sliced almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
6. 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.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the stollen for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
8. Remove the stollen from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
9. 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.

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.