German Stollen Cookies

German Stollen Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic German stollen, packing all the beloved dried fruit and citrus flavors into a bite-sized treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as thoughtful gifts, these cookies combine festive spices with a soft texture to create an irresistible snack. Whether you’re celebrating special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these cookies quickly.
• Festive Flavor: The blend of dried fruits and spices captures the essence of traditional stollen.
• Great for Gifting: These cookies make wonderful gifts during the holiday season, wrapped beautifully.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them with coffee, tea, or as a sweet snack any time of the year.
• Store Well: They stay fresh for up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container.

Tools and Preparation

To make German Stollen Cookies, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (or mixing bowl)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing dough easier and ensures all ingredients are well combined without much effort.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking and helps achieve that perfect golden brown color.
• Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly, preventing sogginess by letting air circulate around them.

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 Dough

• 5 oz raisins (or sultanas)
• 5 oz dried red currants
• 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: Prepare the Dried Fruits

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

Step 2: Activate Yeast

1. In a separate bowl, combine lukewarm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
2. Mix and let it froth up for 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. Add activated yeast mixture, softened butter, vanilla extract, and eggs to the dry ingredients.
2. Mix until fully combined into a dough.

Step 5: Incorporate Fruits

1. Drain the plumped sultanas and red currants.
2. Fold soaked fruit into the dough along with candied citrus peel.

Step 6: Knead Dough

1. Knead by hand or with a dough hook until smooth and elastic.
2. Shape into a large ball; cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
3. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350F/180C.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

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

Step 9: Bake Cookies

1. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
2. Cool on a wire rack for at least 5 minutes.

Step 10: Finish with Sugar

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

These German Stollen Cookies will bring joy to your holidays!

How to Serve German Stollen Cookies

German Stollen Cookies are delightful treats that are perfect for sharing during the holiday season. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious cookies to make your gatherings even more special.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of coffee enhances their flavors and creates a cozy atmosphere.
• Tea: A nice herbal or spiced tea complements the sweetness of the stollen cookies perfectly.
• Hot Chocolate: Rich hot chocolate makes for a decadent combination, especially in colder months.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Cookies: Combine your German Stollen Cookies with other festive cookies for a colorful dessert display.
• Fruit and Nuts: Add fresh fruits and assorted nuts to provide texture and balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

Gift Packaging

• Holiday Boxes: Present the cookies in decorative boxes or tins as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
• Personalized Bags: Use clear bags tied with ribbons or twine for a rustic look, perfect for sharing at gatherings.

How to Perfect German Stollen Cookies

To achieve the best flavor and texture when making German Stollen Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your dried fruits, spices, and baking powder are fresh for optimal flavor.
• Soak Fruits Properly: Soaking the raisins and currants not only plumps them up but also adds moisture to your cookies.
• Knead Thoroughly: Kneading the dough until smooth ensures an even texture in your cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; remove from the oven once golden brown for the best taste.
• Cool Before Storage: Allow cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for German Stollen Cookies

Serving side dishes alongside German Stollen Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses pairs wonderfully with the sweet flavors of the cookies.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, seasonal fruits add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies.
3. Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts offers crunch and savory notes that complement the sweetness.
4. Spiced Applesauce: The warmth of spiced applesauce enhances the festive feel when served alongside.
5. Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream can be dolloped on top of each cookie for added indulgence.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits provides a deliciously light option next to the rich stollen cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making German Stollen Cookies can be a simple and joyful process, but certain pitfalls can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Bold yeast activation: Failing to properly activate the yeast can result in dense cookies. Always ensure your milk is lukewarm and give it time to froth before mixing with dry ingredients.
• Bold measuring flour incorrectly: Using too much flour can make your cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements by fluffing the flour first, then spooning it into your measuring cup.
• Bold neglecting fruit soaking: Skipping the soaking step for dried fruits may lead to chewy, hard pieces in your cookies. Make sure to soak them in boiling water until plump for optimal texture.
• Bold not kneading enough: Insufficient kneading can result in tough cookies. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps develop gluten for better structure.
• Bold improper cooling: Cooling the cookies too quickly can affect their texture. Allow them to cool on a wire rack gently for at least 5 minutes before rolling in powdered sugar.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing German Stollen Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating German Stollen Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds for quick warming.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a non-stick pan, flipping occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making German Stollen Cookies.

Can I use different dried fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix dried fruits like apricots or figs based on your personal taste.

How do I customize my German Stollen Cookies?

You can add nuts or spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor. Experimenting with different ingredients is encouraged!

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, gradually add small amounts of flour while kneading until you achieve a smooth consistency.

How long do these cookies last?

German Stollen Cookies can last up to two weeks when stored correctly at room temperature or refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

These German Stollen Cookies bring festive flavors of dried fruits and spices that perfectly embody holiday spirit. Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for sharing or gifting during the season. Feel free to customize with various fruits or nuts, making them uniquely yours!