Baking The Perfect Betty Crocker Stollen Recipe

Looking for a delicious Betty Crocker Stollen recipe? Look no further! This classic German holiday bread is packed with warm spices, dried fruits, and almonds, making it the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa or a steaming mug of coffee. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. So, let’s dive right in and whip up this delectable Betty Crocker Stollen recipe together!

Betty Crocker Stollen Recipe: A Delicious Holiday Treat

Introduction

The holiday season is a time for indulging in delicious treats and spending quality time with loved ones. One traditional holiday recipe that has stood the test of time is stollen, a decadent bread filled with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices. If you’re looking for a tried-and-true stollen recipe, look no further than Betty Crocker. In this article, we’ll explore Betty Crocker’s famous stollen recipe and guide you through the process of creating this mouthwatering delicacy in your own kitchen.

History of Stollen

Before we delve into the details of Betty Crocker’s stollen recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich history behind this delectable treat. Stollen originated in Germany and has been enjoyed during the Christmas season for centuries. Its roots can be traced back to the 14th century when the first written record of stollen appeared in a document from Dresden, Germany.

Historically, stollen was initially a simple, unleavened bread made with only flour, oats, and water. Over time, it evolved into a more indulgent treat, incorporating ingredients such as butter, sugar, and dried fruits. The shape of stollen has significant symbolic meaning, resembling the swaddled baby Jesus. Today, this festive bread is cherished worldwide and is a staple in many holiday celebrations.

Understanding Betty Crocker’s Stollen Recipe

Now that we have a basic understanding of stollen’s heritage, let’s dive into the details of Betty Crocker’s recipe. Betty Crocker is known for her reliable and delicious recipes, and her stollen recipe is no exception. It combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures, resulting in a moist and flavorful bread that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Ingredients

To create Betty Crocker’s stollen, gather the following ingredients:

1. 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
3. 1/2 teaspoon salt
4. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
5. 2/3 cup milk
6. 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
7. 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
8. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
9. 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
10. 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
11. 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
12. 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
13. 1/2 cup diced candied cherries
14. 1/2 cup chopped almonds
15. 1/2 cup raisins
16. 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
17. 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create Betty Crocker’s stollen masterpiece:

1. In a large bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups of the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the butter and milk over low heat until the mixture is warm (120°F-130°F).
3. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in 1/4 cup warm water and let it stand for 5 minutes.
4. Add the yeast mixture, almond extract, vanilla extract, cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves to the large bowl with the flour mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Gradually add the remaining flour, cherries, almonds, and raisins to the dough. Mix until it becomes a soft dough.
6. Place the dough on a well-floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
7. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Shape each half into an oval-shaped loaf, tapering the ends.
9. Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
10. Bake the loaves for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and brush them with melted butter.
11. Allow the stollen to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the loaves with powdered sugar.

Now, your homemade Betty Crocker stollen is ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for a Perfect Stollen

To ensure your stollen turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

• Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If your dough doesn’t rise properly, it may be due to old yeast.
• Don’t overmix the dough. Mix until the ingredients are just combined; overmixing can result in a denser bread.
• Allow the stollen to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar. This prevents the sugar from melting and creating a sticky mess.
• Feel free to customize your stollen by adding or substituting ingredients. Dried cranberries, apricots, or walnuts are delightful alternatives.

Betty Crocker’s stollen recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional holiday bread. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this stollen is sure to impress your family and friends during the festive season. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic holiday treat.

Just put everything inside the bread and take it to the oven!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Betty Crocker Stollen recipe?

The Betty Crocker Stollen recipe is a traditional German Christmas bread that is filled with dried fruits, nuts, and spices. It is typically shaped into a loaf and topped with powdered sugar.

What ingredients do I need to make Betty Crocker Stollen?

To make Betty Crocker Stollen, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup chopped candied cherries
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

How do I make Betty Crocker Stollen?

To make Betty Crocker Stollen, follow these steps:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
2. Add the softened butter, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the bowl.
3. Using a mixer or your hands, mix until the ingredients are well combined and a dough forms.
4. Add the cherries, raisins, and almonds to the dough and mix until they are evenly distributed.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for a few minutes.
6. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake the Stollen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Remove the Stollen from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. Dust the Stollen with powdered sugar before serving.

Can I add other ingredients to the Betty Crocker Stollen recipe?

Yes, you can customize the Betty Crocker Stollen recipe by adding other ingredients such as dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or citrus zest. Just make sure to adjust the quantities accordingly so that the dough consistency remains the same.

How long does Betty Crocker Stollen stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Betty Crocker Stollen can stay fresh for up to a week. However, it is best enjoyed within the first few days after baking for optimal taste and texture.

Can I freeze Betty Crocker Stollen?

Yes, you can freeze Betty Crocker Stollen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, place it in a freezer bag, and store it in the freezer. Thaw the Stollen at room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Betty Crocker Stollen recipe is a delightful holiday treat that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. This traditional German fruit bread, packed with nuts, dried fruits, and warm spices, is a true crowd-pleaser. The recipe is easy to follow and yields a deliciously moist and fragrant stollen. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or as a dessert after a festive meal, Betty Crocker Stollen is sure to impress. Try this recipe for a taste of holiday cheer and a memorable addition to your holiday gatherings.