German Stollen Cookies

German Stollen Cookies are a delightful bite-sized twist on the traditional German stollen. Filled with dried fruits and zesty citrus flavors, these cookies bring the festive spirit to your holiday gatherings. They’re perfect for gifting, sharing with friends, or enjoying as a sweet treat with your favorite beverage. With their rich taste and charming appearance, these cookies will surely impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Festive Flavors: The combination of dried fruits and spices evokes the warmth of the holiday season.
• Versatile Gift: Pack them in a decorative box for a lovely homemade gift that everyone will appreciate.
• Long Lasting: Store them in an airtight container, and they stay fresh for up to two weeks.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering or party.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your German Stollen Cookies, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and effort by quickly combining ingredients to achieve a smooth dough.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing your dough and soaking fruits without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface is necessary for even baking and easy cookie handling.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

A bite-sized version of the traditional German stollen offering the same classic dried fruit and citrus flavors that you love in the classic Christstollen. Perfect as a gift during the holiday season!

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 special occasion 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 Topping

• 1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make German Stollen Cookies

Step 1: Soak the Dried Fruits

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

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 5: Incorporate Soaked Fruit

Drain the sultanas and dried red currants. Stir them into your dough along with candied citrus peel.

Step 6: Knead Dough

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

Step 7: Preheat Oven

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

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls (about 2 oz 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.

Step 10: Add Powdered Sugar

While warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. Enjoy immediately or store them 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 served in various ways to complement different occasions and gatherings.

Gift Wrapping

• Wrap cookies in decorative boxes or tins for a thoughtful gift.
• Add a personal note or card for an extra touch of warmth.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside freshly brewed coffee to enhance their flavors.
• The warmth of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Tea Time Treats

• Offer these cookies during afternoon tea as a delightful accompaniment.
• Pair with herbal teas like chamomile or spiced chai for a cozy experience.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange on a dessert platter alongside other holiday sweets.
• Include items like chocolate truffles, gingerbread, or marzipan for variety.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create ice cream sandwiches for a fun twist.
• Choose vanilla or ginger ice cream to complement the spices in the cookies.

How to Perfect German Stollen Cookies

Perfecting your German Stollen Cookies ensures they are soft, flavorful, and visually appealing. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your dried fruits and spices are fresh for maximum flavor impact.
• Knead Well: Properly kneading the dough helps develop gluten, resulting in a better texture.
• Let Them Rise: Allowing the dough enough time to rise is crucial for achieving fluffy cookies.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven; remove the cookies when they’re golden brown but not overbaked.
• Cool Completely: Let them cool fully before storing; this helps maintain their freshness longer.

Best Side Dishes for German Stollen Cookies

German Stollen Cookies can be enjoyed with various side dishes that enhance their festive charm. Here are some complementary options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider
   A warm drink that brings out the holiday flavors and pairs beautifully with sweet treats.
2. Fruit Salad
   A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Board
   Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creaminess contrasts nicely with the cookie’s texture.
4. Chocolate Fondue
   A fun dessert option where guests can dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for added indulgence.
5. Nuts & Dried Fruits
   A simple bowl of mixed nuts and dried fruits provides a crunchy contrast to soft cookies.
6. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and some cookie crumbs for a delicious breakfast option that incorporates these festive treats.
7. Mulled Wine Spice Mix
   Create a non-alcoholic version using fruit juices, enhancing both flavor profiles during gatherings.
8. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Serve a scoop alongside warm cookies for an irresistible dessert combination that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking German Stollen Cookies, some common missteps can affect the outcome of your delightful treats. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Not properly activating yeast: If you skip the activation step for the yeast, your cookies may not rise properly. Always ensure the yeast is frothy before adding it to your dough.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can hinder dough mixing. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending and texture.
• Skipping the resting period: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for flavor development. Don’t rush this step; let it rise until it has doubled in size.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. They should be golden brown but still soft to touch.
• Neglecting proper storage: Storing your cookies improperly can make them stale quickly. Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing German Stollen Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container after solidified.
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating German Stollen Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a cookie on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, warming each cookie for about 1 minute per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about German Stollen Cookies:

What are German Stollen Cookies?

German Stollen Cookies are bite-sized treats inspired by traditional stollen, featuring dried fruits and spices, perfect for festive occasions.

How can I customize my German Stollen Cookies?

You can add different dried fruits like apricots or swap in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover German Stollen Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

German Stollen Cookies bring a delightful twist to your holiday baking with their rich flavors and chewy texture. They’re versatile enough for any occasion and can easily be customized with different fruits or nuts. We encourage you to try making these festive treats—they’re sure to impress friends and family!