Name: Moist German Christmas Stollen
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-489468H40M12S
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast; ¾ cup warm milk; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup golden raisins; ½ cup dark raisins; ⅓ cup chopped candied citrus peel; ½ cup blanched almonds, chopped; ¼ cup dark rum or orange juice; ½ cup powdered sugar for dusting; 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing

A holiday treasure steeped in centuries of tradition, Moist German Christmas Stollen is more than just a festive bread—it’s a beloved centerpiece of any Christmas table. Dusted generously with powdered sugar and packed with golden raisins, candied citrus, and toasty almonds, this rich, buttery loaf has a dense yet tender crumb that only improves with time. Whether served with morning coffee or gifted in a ribbon-wrapped package, this stollen evokes the cozy charm of German Christmas markets and family kitchens filled with spice and joy.

What sets this version apart is the moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture that comes from soaking the fruit beforehand and letting the loaf rest after baking. That final snowy coat of powdered sugar isn’t just for looks—it seals in freshness and gives the bread its signature holiday appeal. One slice of this festive stollen and you’ll understand why it’s been adored for generations.

Why You’ll Love This Moist German Christmas Stollen

Authentic holiday flavor: Loaded with dried fruits, spices, and buttery richness.
Perfectly moist: No dry, crumbly stollen here—this version is tender and luscious.
Make-ahead magic: Improves with time, making it perfect for holiday prep.
Versatile: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or gifting.
A showstopper: The powdered sugar finish makes it as beautiful as it is delicious.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Crafting this stollen to perfection starts with proper prep and the right kitchen tools. Each step is elevated when you’re using tools that streamline the process and help maintain the traditional shape and texture.

Essential Tools & Equipment:

Mixing Bowls: Large enough to soak fruits and mix dough without spilling.
Stand Mixer with Dough Hook: Makes kneading effortless and consistent, crucial for a soft dough.
Digital Scale: Accuracy matters in baking—especially with fruit and flour ratios.
Rolling Pin: Helps shape the dough into its signature oval or log shape.
Baking Sheet with Parchment: Prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
Pastry Brush: Key for coating the warm stollen in melted butter and powdered sugar.
Cooling Rack: Allows air to circulate around the loaf to cool properly and avoid sogginess.

Ingredients for the Moist German Christmas Stollen

All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base structure of the dough.
Active Dry Yeast: Helps the bread rise and gives it a light, fluffy interior.
Milk: Adds moisture and activates the yeast.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough without overpowering.
Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and keeps the crumb soft.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Ground Nutmeg and Cardamom: Warm spices that bring festive depth.
Vanilla Extract: Balances the spices with a smooth, sweet aroma.
Golden Raisins and Dark Raisins: Add chewy bursts of sweetness.
Chopped Candied Citrus Peel: Infuses the loaf with zesty brightness.
Blanched Almonds: Add subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
Powdered Sugar: Seals in moisture and creates that iconic white crust.
Rum or Orange Juice: Used to soak the fruits and enhance flavor.

How To Make the Moist German Christmas Stollen

Step 1: Soak the Fruit

Combine the raisins, candied peel, and almonds with rum or orange juice. Let them soak overnight to plump and infuse with flavor.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk and dissolve in sugar and yeast. Let it sit until frothy—this tells you the yeast is alive and ready.

Step 3: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, spices, and soaked fruit. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Knead until a soft, elastic dough forms.

Step 4: First Rise

Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Roll it into an oval and fold it lengthwise to get that signature stollen shape.

Step 6: Bake

Place the loaf on a lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 7: Coat in Butter and Sugar

Brush the warm stollen with melted butter and dust generously with powdered sugar. Repeat after it cools for a thicker coating.

Step 8: Rest

Wrap tightly in foil and let it rest for at least a day to allow the flavors to develop. It keeps getting better over time.

Serving and Storing Moist German Christmas Stollen

To serve, slice the stollen thick and pair it with a hot cup of coffee or mulled wine. It shines as a holiday breakfast or after-dinner treat. Store wrapped in foil and keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months.

The flavor improves after a day or two of resting, so resist the urge to slice into it right away—your patience will be rewarded.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I soak the dried fruits?

Ideally overnight, but at least 4 hours. The longer the soak, the more flavorful and moist the stollen.

Can I make it alcohol-free?

Yes! Substitute rum with orange juice or apple juice for a family-friendly version.

Is stollen supposed to be dense?

Yes, but not dry. A good stollen is moist, buttery, and packed with ingredients, giving it a rich density.

Do I have to use nuts?

No—you can skip the almonds or replace them with more dried fruit.

Why does it need to rest after baking?

Resting helps the flavors meld and the texture to improve, making each slice even more delicious.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! It freezes well, so making two loaves means one for now and one for later.

Want More Holiday Baking Ideas?

If you love this Moist German Christmas Stollen, you’ll enjoy these festive treats from my kitchen:

Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread for buttery, nutty indulgence.
Winter Brittle for a crunchy, sweet-salty snack that makes a perfect gift.
Rose Pistachio Cheesecake Ice Cream if you want an exotic twist on holiday dessert.
Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie for a creamy, nostalgic finish.
Amish Applesauce Cake with its spicy warmth and old-world comfort.