German Stollen Cookies

German Stollen Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic German stollen, bringing the same beloved dried fruit and citrus flavors to a bite-sized treat. These cookies are perfect for festive occasions and make wonderful gifts during the holiday season. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, they will surely become a favorite among friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: These cookies combine rich spices, dried fruits, and nuts for a mouthwatering taste.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up quickly, even if you’re short on time.
• Perfect for Gifting: Their beautiful presentation makes them a lovely gift for holidays or special occasions.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them with coffee or tea, or as a sweet dessert after dinner.
• Long-Lasting Freshness: Store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks without losing their delightful taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather your tools before starting. Having everything organized will help you focus on creating these scrumptious German Stollen Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer or mixing spoon
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing spoon: Essential for thoroughly mixing ingredients and achieving the right dough consistency.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the cookies, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To craft these delicious German Stollen Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Fruit Mixture

• 5 oz raisins (or sultanas)
• 5 oz dried red currants

For the Dough

• 1/2 cup whole milk (lukewarm)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast (or instant yeast)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup ground almonds
• 1 tsp Christmas spice mix (or pumpkin spice mix)
• 3/4 cup butter (softened)
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3.5 oz candied citrus peel

For Dusting

• 1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make German Stollen Cookies

Step 1: Soak the Fruits

Add the sultanas and dried red currants to a medium bowl and pour over boiling water until they are fully submerged. Set aside to plump up.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

Activate the dry yeast by combining lukewarm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp of the sugar in a bowl. Mix well and let it froth up for about 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl or in the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, ground almonds, Christmas spice mix, and remaining sugar.

Step 4: Mix Dough Ingredients

Add the activated yeast mixture, softened butter, vanilla extract, and eggs to the dry mixture. Mix until everything is fully combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Fruits

Drain the soaked sultanas and red currants. Fold them into the dough along with the candied citrus peel until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough by hand or with a dough hook until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape it into a large ball. Let it rise in a warm place covered with a damp tea towel or plastic wrap for 1-2 hours.

Step 7: Prepare to Bake

Preheat your oven to 350F (180C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls (about 2oz each) and place them on the lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake the stollen cookies for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes after removing from the oven.

Step 10: Dust with Sugar

While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container once cooled for up to two weeks.

How to Serve German Stollen Cookies

German Stollen Cookies are delightful treats that embody the festive spirit of the holiday season. They can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for gatherings or as a sweet gift.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – The rich, bold flavors of coffee pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the cookies.
• Tea – A warm cup of herbal or spiced tea complements the spices in the cookies beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate – Indulge your sweet tooth by dipping these cookies into a creamy cup of hot chocolate.

As Part of a Festive Platter

• Cookie Assortment – Include German Stollen Cookies alongside other holiday treats for a colorful display.
• Fruit and Nut Board – Pair with seasonal fruits and nuts to balance the sweetness and add texture.
• Cheese Pairing – Soft cheeses like brie can create an interesting flavor contrast with the sweet cookies.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Decorative Box – Package them in a beautifully decorated box to make a lovely gift for friends and family.
• Holiday Tin – Use a festive tin for an easy-to-store option that keeps cookies fresh and makes gifting simple.

How to Perfect German Stollen Cookies

To ensure your German Stollen Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Ensure that your dried fruits, yeast, and spices are fresh for optimal flavor.
• Knead Thoroughly – Properly knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic to achieve the right texture.
• Watch Baking Time – Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should turn golden brown but not over-bake.
• Cool Before Sugaring – Allow cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar for a better coating.

Best Side Dishes for German Stollen Cookies

Pairing side dishes with German Stollen Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Spiced Apple Compote – A warm apple compote adds sweetness and spice that complements the cookies nicely.
2. Cinnamon Ice Cream – This creamy treat offers a cold contrast to the warm cookies and enhances their flavor profile.
3. Chai Latte – The aromatic spices in chai greatly enhance the taste of these festive cookies.
4. Candied Orange Slices – These provide a zesty touch that pairs well with the citrus notes in the cookies.
5. Roasted Nuts Mix – A mix of roasted almonds and walnuts adds crunch and balances out sweetness.
6. Marzipan Slices – This almond-based confection harmonizes perfectly with the ground almonds in your stollen cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making German Stollen Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Incorrect Yeast Activation: Not allowing the yeast to froth can lead to flat cookies. Always use lukewarm milk and wait for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
• Overmixing Dough: Mixing too much can make cookies tough. Mix only until ingredients are combined, then knead gently.
• Inaccurate Measurements: Using the wrong measurements affects texture and taste. Always use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient amounts.
• Skipping the Rising Step: Not letting the dough rise will yield dense cookies. Allow it to double in size for the best texture.
• Insufficient Cooling Time: Rolling in powdered sugar while too hot can cause it to melt away. Let them cool a bit before dusting for better results.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing German Stollen Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating German Stollen Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Heat cookies for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use low power and heat for 10-15 seconds at a time to avoid drying them out.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered pan on low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding German Stollen Cookies that may help clarify your baking experience.

How do I achieve the best flavor in German Stollen Cookies?

To enhance flavor, use high-quality spices and let the dough rest overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I customize my German Stollen Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, different dried fruits, or spices according to your personal preference.

How long do German Stollen Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to one week at room temperature or up to three months in the freezer.

What is the best way to serve German Stollen Cookies?

Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar alongside a hot beverage for a delightful treat.

Are there any alternatives for allergens in this recipe?

You can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends and use dairy-free butter alternatives if needed.

Final Thoughts

German Stollen Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile for various occasions. Their rich flavors and delightful textures make them perfect as gifts or festive treats during the holiday season. Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits and spices for a personalized touch!