Traditional German Stollen

Step 1

In a shallow dish, soak the candied fruit and raisins in the flavored water, covering the dish but stirring occasionally. Soak at least 30 minutes, or overnight.

Step 2

Toast the almond pieces in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until they begin to color and become fragrant, about 7 minutes. Remove to a separate (cool) dish and set aside.

Step 3

Heat 3/4 cup milk, one stick butter, 1/3 cup sugar, and the salt in a small saucepan, stirring just until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Pour into a large bowl and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4

Meanwhile, put the warm water in a cup, sprinkle with the yeast, and and stir in 1/2 teaspoon sugar. Wait 5 minutes, until the yeast is foaming actively, then stir the yeast mixture into the warm milk mixture.

Step 5

Add eggs and 3 cups flour, and stir well. Add vanilla, lemon zest, and 1/4 cup softened butter (cut into several pieces), the fruit/nut mixture, and the remaining 1 1/2 cups flour. Mix together to form dough.

Step 6

Turn dough on to a floured board and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Form into a ball, lightly oil the outside, and place in a covered bowl to rise for an hour (or until doubled).

Step 7

Grease two baking sheets. Divide dough in two and–working one at a time–roll or pat each half into an oval. Roll out to about 2.5 cm/1 inch thick. Brush liberally with butter and fold in half length-wise so the bottom edge of the dough extends beyond the top and press down. Pinch around the edge to seal. Brush with butter again, cover loosely, and let rise until doubled again, about another hour.

Step 8

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake loaves for 35-45 minutes, until the loaves are golden and a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Step 9

Brush with butter (again) and set aside to cool, brushing with butter several more times. Sift powdered sugar over the loaves after each layer of butter. Stollen keeps well and can also be sliced and toasted. It makes an awesome breakfast paired with some hot cider and fresh fruit.