If you’re a fan of the rich flavors of traditional stollen bread but are looking for a quicker and handheld option, these Stollen Muffins are just the thing for you. These delicious baked treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. Packed with dried fruits, warm spices, and a hint of almond, these muffins encapsulate the essence of the classic stollen bread in a convenient muffin form. Let’s get baking!
**Stollen Muffins**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– ⅔ cup plain yogurt
– ½ cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and chopped apricots)
– ¼ cup chopped almonds
– ¼ cup powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the almond extract.
5. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the plain yogurt, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
6. Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits and chopped almonds until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
9. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the muffins have cooled, dust the tops with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
11. Serve these Stollen Muffins warm or at room temperature alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and flavorful treat.
These Stollen Muffins are a delightful twist on a classic holiday bread, perfect for enjoying throughout the year. The combination of dried fruits, almonds, and aromatic spices makes these muffins a comforting and indulgent treat for any occasion. Share them with family and friends or enjoy them as a special breakfast indulgence just for yourself. We hope these muffins bring a touch of warmth and tradition to your home!
