In the heart of the Czech Republic lies a delightful tradition that’s all about spreading warmth and cheer during the holiday season. One of the most beloved Christmas baking recipes is the štola Christmas Stollen. This mouthwatering treat is filled with the wonderful flavors of winter – rich marzipan, aromatic spices, and plump dried fruits. It’s a festive delight that is sure to bring joy to your home and create lasting memories with loved ones.
**štola Christmas Stollen**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup of mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and chopped apricots)
– 1/2 cup of rum
– 1/2 cup of warm milk
– 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of almond extract
– 1 cup of marzipan, diced
– 1/2 cup of chopped almonds
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and rum. Allow them to soak for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to plump up the fruits with flavor.
2. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Create a well in the center and add the softened butter, eggs, and almond extract.
4. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a dough starts to form.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Drain the soaked fruits and pat them dry. Add the fruits, marzipan, and chopped almonds to the dough, gently folding them in until evenly distributed.
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 place for about 1-2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll out each half into a long oval shape.
10. Fold one side of the oval over the other to create a log shape, then gently press down to seal the seam.
11. Place the stollen on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let it rise again for another 30 minutes.
12. Bake the štola Christmas Stollen for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
13. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
14. Dust the stollen with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy this delightful štola Christmas Stollen with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced mulled wine, and share the joy of the holiday season with your friends and family. Happy baking!
