If you’re looking to infuse your holiday season with a delightful German tradition, look no further than the Orangenstollen, a classic Christmas baking recipe that brings a burst of citrusy flavor to your table. This delightful treat combines the richness of a traditional stollen with the brightness of fresh oranges, making it a perfect addition to any festive gathering.
Orangenstollen (Orange Stollen)
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup rum
– 3/4 cup orange juice
– Zest of 2 oranges
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup almond slices
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
– 1/2 cup marzipan (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, soak the raisins in rum for at least 1 hour to plump them up and infuse them with flavor.
2. In another bowl, combine the orange juice, orange zest, sugar, and softened butter. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the butter is well incorporated.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the orange juice mixture. Mix until a rough dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Drain the raisins from the rum and knead them into the dough, along with the almond slices.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it in half. Roll out each half into a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
8. If using marzipan, roll it out into a thin log and place it lengthwise down the center of each dough rectangle.
9. Fold the dough over the marzipan and pinch the edges to seal. Shape each piece into a traditional stollen shape, with tapered ends and a hump in the center.
10. Place the stollen on the prepared baking sheet and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
11. Bake the stollen in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
12. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.
Enjoy this festive Orangenstollen with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy Christmas treat that will delight your friends and family. It’s a wonderful addition to any holiday baking repertoire and is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. Happy baking!
