Christmas Stollen

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour,

2. 2

   5 cup of granulated sugar, and

3. 3

   5 teaspoon of salt.

4. 4

   Melt

5. 5

   5 cup of unsalted butter and add it to the flour mixture.

6. 6

   Warm 1 cup of milk to about 110°F (43°C) and dissolve 1 packet of active dry yeast in it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

7. 7

   Add the milk and yeast mixture to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.

8. 8

   Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

9. 9

   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

10. 10

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and knead in 1 cup of mixed dried fruits,

11. 11

    25 cup of chopped almonds, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

12. 12

    Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

13. 13

    Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

14. 14

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

15. 15

    Bake the stollen in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

16. 16

    Allow the stollen to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.