Name: Stollen Butter Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: PT-492214H25M8S
Cuisine: German-Inspired
Ingredients: 2¼ tsp active dry yeast; ¾ cup warm milk; ¼ cup sugar; ¼ cup softened butter; 1 egg; 3 cups flour; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup mixed dried fruit; ¼ cup chopped almonds; 1 tbsp orange zest; 2 tbsp melted butter; Powdered sugar for dusting

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If you are searching for a comforting treat that wraps the warm spirit of the holidays into a soft, buttery bite, this Stollen Butter Rolls Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Inspired by the classic German stollen, these rolls combine delicate dough, a luscious mix of dried fruits and almonds, and a final flourish of powdered sugar that makes every bite feel like a cozy celebration. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or simply craving something sweet and tender, these rolls deliver on flavor and heartwarming nostalgia in every mouthful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of various baking ingredients arranged on a dark wooden surface with a white marbled texture. There is a large clear glass bowl filled with white flour at the top right, and next to it are three whole white eggs. Below the flour is a small glass bowl holding colorful chopped candied fruits in red, green, and orange pieces. To the left of the candied fruits, a clear glass bowl contains dark brown raisins. Above the raisins, a small bowl with a white powder is present. Near the center left is a small clear glass filled with milk, sitting next to a light yellow stick of unsalted butter in wrapper. Near the bottom center is a white bowl filled with white powdered sugar. To the right of the powdered sugar, a small measuring cup contains white granulated sugar, and beside it lies a yellow lemon. Next to the lemon is a yellow and blue packet of instant yeast. Above the sugar cup, a small metal measuring cup holds sliced almonds. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a special role, keeping the balance between soft texture, rich flavor, and that irresistible golden color. With simple pantry staples and a handful of flavorful additions, you’re almost ready to bake up a batch of love and tradition.

2¼ tsp active dry yeast: The magic that makes the dough rise light and fluffy.
¾ cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds creamy moisture to the dough.
¼ cup sugar: Sweetness that enhances both flavor and browning.
¼ cup softened butter: Provides richness and tenderness to the rolls.
1 egg: Binds the dough and adds a slight golden hue.
3 cups flour: The sturdy base that gives structure to your rolls.
½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
½ cup mixed dried fruit: A juicy, chewy surprise packed with sweetness and texture.
¼ cup chopped almonds: Adds a pleasant crunch and nutty depth.
1 tbsp orange zest: Brightens the rolls with a fresh citrus note.
2 tbsp melted butter: For brushing after baking, sealing in moisture and adding shine.
Powdered sugar: For dusting, creating that quintessential stollen look and a hint of sweetness.

How to Make Stollen Butter Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by dissolving the active dry yeast in warm milk. This little pause of about five minutes lets the yeast awaken and get ready to work its magic, ensuring your rolls rise to soft perfection. It’s the first step toward that fluffy texture that makes these rolls so special.

Step 2: Mix the Dough Ingredients

Combine the sugar, softened butter, egg, flour, and salt with your yeast mixture. Mix it gently until all the ingredients come together into a cohesive dough. This blend creates the foundation, where the flavors begin to intermingle and promise a delicious bite.

Step 3: Knead and Let Rise

Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, then cover it with a clean towel and give it time to rise for about an hour. Watching your dough double in size is so rewarding, and this slow rise develops both flavor and that tender crumb you’re craving.

Step 4: Fold in The Goodies

After your dough is puffed up beautifully, gently fold in the mixed dried fruits, chopped almonds, and fragrant orange zest. This step distributes pockets of fruity sweetness and crunchy texture, making every bite a delightful surprise.

Step 5: Shape and Proof the Rolls

Shape the enriched dough into individual rolls and place them spaced apart on a baking sheet. Let them rest again for about 30 minutes — one last rise to get them perfectly puffy and ready to bake.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your rolls at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the rolls will develop a gorgeous golden crust and fill the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that makes waiting well worth it.

Step 7: Finish with Butter and Sugar

As soon as you pull the rolls from the oven, brush them generously with melted butter and dust with powdered sugar. This finishing touch locks in moisture while giving the rolls that classic stollen appearance and sweetness you will adore.

How to Serve Stollen Butter Rolls Recipe

A loaf of bread covered with a thick layer of white powdered sugar sits on a wooden cutting board. The bread is sliced to show its inside, which has a light brown crumb filled with pieces of nuts and dried fruit, and a dense golden brown center. The texture looks soft and crumbly with visible bits of almonds and raisins inside. To the right, a wooden-handled knife lies on the board next to the bread. In the background, there are stacked white plates on a white marbled surface and small wooden bowls holding whole nuts. A beige cloth is placed on the left side near the bread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The classic dusting of powdered sugar makes these rolls look like a fresh snowfall, but if you want to wow your guests, try sprinkling a little extra orange zest or some finely chopped toasted almonds on top. It adds a fresh, festive sparkle that’s just irresistible.

Side Dishes

These buttery rolls pair beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea, making them a perfect morning treat. For a festive meal, serve alongside mulled wine or hot cider, and perhaps a creamy cheese spread, to create a well-rounded, heartwarming experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the rolls in a rustic basket lined with a linen cloth or serve warm right from the oven on a wooden board with small bowls of butter, honey, and jam. You might even slice and toast them lightly to serve with whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful brunch twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Stollen Butter Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain their softness and prevents them from drying out, so you can enjoy fresh-tasting rolls for several days.

Freezing

To freeze, place cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container once solid. They’ll keep well for up to three months—perfect for making ahead and enjoying a warm treat later.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or leftover rolls by wrapping them in foil and warming in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This method brings back their soft, buttery texture without drying them out, just like they were freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I substitute the dried fruit with fresh fruit?

Fresh fruit tends to release moisture during baking, which can make the rolls soggy. It’s best to stick with dried fruit for that chewy texture and concentrated sweetness that complements the buttery dough perfectly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter and milk with your favorite plant-based alternatives, such as vegan butter and almond milk. The rolls may have a slightly different texture, but they will still be delicious and tender.

How long do these rolls stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, the Stollen Butter Rolls stay fresh and soft for about three days. Beyond that, the texture may start to firm up unless refrigerated or frozen.

Can I add rum or other flavorings to the dried fruit?

Absolutely! Soaking the dried fruit in rum, orange juice, or brandy for a couple of hours before folding it into the dough adds an extra depth of flavor that’s classic to traditional stollen.

What’s the best way to shape the rolls?

You can shape them into simple rounds or small oval shapes resembling traditional stollen pieces. The key is to keep them uniform in size to ensure even baking and beautiful presentation.

Final Thoughts

Making the Stollen Butter Rolls Recipe is like inviting a small slice of holiday magic into your kitchen. With each soft, buttery roll studded with fruity surprises and dusted with snowy sugar, you’ll find yourself smiling and reaching for another. Whether you bake these for yourself or to share, they’re guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to any occasion. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to enjoy one of the most comforting, flavorful rolls you’ll ever taste!