Liaoning-style Nut-filled Stollen

Ingredients

In this Liaoning-style adaptation, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Liaoning cuisine. The traditional German Stollen is enhanced with a mixture of nuts commonly used in Liaoning, such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios. Additionally, we infuse the dough with Liaoning's signature spices to add a unique twist to the classic recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Stollen, so you can check it out.

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 2 teaspoons (10g) active dry yeast 2 teaspoons (10g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground cloves
• 1/2 cup (75g) chopped almonds 1/2 cup (75g) chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup (75g) chopped walnuts 1/2 cup (75g) chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup (35g) chopped pistachios 1/4 cup (35g) chopped pistachios
• 1/2 cup (75g) mixed candied fruits (such as cherries, citrus peel) 1/2 cup (75g) mixed candied fruits (such as cherries, citrus peel)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) rum or brandy 1/4 cup (60ml) rum or brandy
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted (for brushing) 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 kJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
• Carbohydrates: 42g (Sugars: 18g)
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves.
3. 3.
   Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   In a separate bowl, combine the chopped almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and candied fruits. Pour the rum or brandy over the mixture and let it soak for 15 minutes.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle shape.
9. 9.
   Spread the nut and fruit mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. 10.
    Roll the dough tightly from one long side to form a log shape, tucking in the edges as you go.
11. 11.
    Place the Stollen on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
12. 12.
    Remove the Stollen from the oven and immediately brush it with melted butter.
13. 13.
    Let the Stollen cool completely, then dust it generously with powdered sugar.
14. 14.
    Slice and serve the Liaoning-style Nut-filled Stollen as a delightful treat during festive occasions or with a cup of tea or coffee.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Toast the almonds lightly before chopping them to enhance their flavor and crunchiness.
• Walnuts — Use fresh walnuts for the best taste and texture.
• Pistachios — Remove the shells and chop the pistachios into small pieces for even distribution in the filling.
• Candied fruits — If you prefer a softer texture, soak the candied fruits in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the filling.
• Rum or brandy — If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the rum or brandy with apple juice or orange juice.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, let the Stollen rest for a day or two after baking before serving.
• Wrap the Stollen tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh for longer.
• Serve the Stollen at room temperature or slightly warmed for the best taste and texture.
• Customize the filling by adding your favorite dried fruits or spices.
• If you prefer a sweeter Stollen, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top just before serving.

Serving advice

Slice the Liaoning-style Nut-filled Stollen into thick slices and serve it as a centerpiece dessert during festive gatherings or enjoy it as a delightful treat with a cup of tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Present the Liaoning-style Nut-filled Stollen on a decorative platter, dusted generously with powdered sugar. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of ground cinnamon for an elegant touch.