Why You’ll Love German Nut Stollen (Nussstollen) Recipe
This Nut Stollen combines the cozy flavors of toasted nuts and warm spices with a buttery dough that’s both soft and satisfying. Filled with rich nut paste and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s perfect for holiday breakfasts, afternoon coffee breaks, or gifting to friends and family. Even though it takes some time to make, the process is straightforward and the results are truly rewarding.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the dough:
3 1/2 cups all‑purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm milk
For the filling:
2 cups toasted and ground nuts (such as walnuts, hazelnuts, or almonds)
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup cream
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup chopped nuts
For finishing:
2 tablespoons melted butter
Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
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Make the dough: In a small bowl, combine the yeast with warm milk and a teaspoon of sugar; let it foam. In a larger bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and the yeast mixture and mix until a smooth dough forms. Knead 8–10 minutes until elastic.
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First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
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Prepare the filling: Spread nuts on a baking sheet and toast until fragrant. Once cooled, grind them finely. Combine the ground nuts with sugar, cream, and cinnamon to make a spreadable mixture.
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Shape the stollen: Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle. Spread the nut mixture evenly, leaving a small border. Sprinkle with chopped nuts, then roll the dough into a log and pinch the ends to seal.
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Second rise and bake: Place the shaped loaf on a baking sheet. Let it rise again briefly, about 30 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until golden.
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Finish: Brush the warm stollen with melted butter and dust generously with powdered sugar. Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
Serves: 1 loaf, about 10–12 slices
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: Approximately 2 hours including rising time
Variations
• Rum‑infused filling: Add a splash of rum to the nut mixture for deeper flavor.
• Citrus zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the filling for brightness.
• Mini stollen: Divide the dough and filling into smaller portions and adjust baking time to about 20–25 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
Store your stollen tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap the loaf well in plastic wrap and foil; it will keep for up to 3 months. To serve after freezing, thaw at room temperature and warm gently in a low oven before serving.
FAQs
What is Nussstollen?
Nussstollen is a German nut stollen, a variation of the classic Christmas bread filled with a rich nut mixture instead of dried fruit or marzipan.
Do I need special nuts?
You can use walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, or a mix — toast them first for better flavor.
Can I make this dairy‑free?
Yes, substitute plant‑based milk and cream, and use a dairy‑free butter alternative.
Is the dough difficult to make?
The dough is a standard enriched yeast dough, easy to work with if you allow time for proper rising.
Can I add spices?
Absolutely; cinnamon is classic, but nutmeg or cardamom also work well.
Should the stollen be served warm?
It’s best slightly warm or at room temperature, which enhances its aroma and texture.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough or filling a day ahead and assemble before baking.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The loaf should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I add fruit to this stollen?
Traditional Nussstollen doesn’t include fruit, but you can add raisins if desired.
How should I slice it?
Use a serrated knife and slice after it’s fully cooled for clean, even pieces.
Conclusion
German Nut Stollen (Nussstollen) is a wonderfully rich and festive bread that brings warm flavors and comforting aromas to your kitchen. With its nut‑filled center and tender yeast dough, it’s an impressive treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a slice of traditional German baking. Try this recipe and make it a part of your seasonal baking traditions.
