During the festive season in Germany, the air is filled with the scent of freshly baked goods, and one traditional treat that graces many tables is the delightful Kirschstollen, also known as Cherry Stollen. This indulgent sweet bread studded with cherries, almonds, and a hint of rum is a beloved Christmas classic that is perfect for snacking on while curled up by the fire or serving to guests with a warm cup of tea. Today, let’s dive into the joys of baking this delicious Kirschstollen together.
**Ingredients:**
– 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tbsp active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm milk
– 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ½ tsp almond extract
– 1 cup dried cherries
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– ¼ cup rum
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– ½ tsp salt
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the dried cherries and rum. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes to plump up and infuse the cherries with flavor.
2. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
3. Add the softened butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, lemon zest, cinnamon, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
4. Gradually stir in the flour, a little at a time, until a sticky dough forms.
5. Drain the soaked cherries, reserving any leftover rum that was not absorbed. Fold the cherries and chopped almonds into the dough, making sure they are evenly distributed.
6. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
7. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
9. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and transfer it to a floured surface.
10. Roll out the dough into an oval shape, about ½ inch thick. Fold one side of the dough over the other, creating a rustic loaf shape with one end slightly longer than the other.
11. Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet. Cover it loosely with a kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
12. Bake the Kirschstollen in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
13. Remove the Cherry Stollen from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
14. Once the Stollen has cooled, dust it generously with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
**Enjoy your homemade Kirschstollen with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of mulled wine for a truly cozy and festive experience. This delightful sweet bread is a labor of love that will bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. Happy baking, and may your home be filled with the delicious aroma of Cherry Stollen this Christmas season!**
