Hey there, fellow baking enthusiasts! Today, we're embarking on a delightful baking adventure that combines the charm of traditional Stollen with a playful, imaginative twist. We'll be crafting Stollen-style Cat & Bear Chocolate Bread, a treat that's as fun to make as it is to enjoy.
I stumbled upon this captivating recipe on Cotta, and I couldn't resist sharing it with you. So, let's don our aprons, preheat those ovens, and get ready to create a magical bread that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup marzipan
- 1/4 cup chopped candied orange peel
- 1/4 cup chopped candied lemon peel
- 1/4 cup chopped candied cherries
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Sliced almonds (for decoration)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Make a well in the center.
- Pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until it's smooth and elastic. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Incorporate Chocolate Chips:
- Flatten the dough and sprinkle the mini chocolate chips over it. Fold the dough over and knead it lightly to distribute the chocolate evenly.
4. Let it Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, mix the marzipan, chopped candied fruits, and chopped almonds in a small bowl.
6. Shape the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the marzipan and fruit mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough into a log and shape it into a cat and bear form. You can use your imagination and shape it however you like!
7. Second Rise:
- Place your shaped bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Preheat and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake your adorable Stollen-style Cat & Bear Chocolate Bread for about 25-30 minutes, or until it's golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Glaze and Decorate:
- While the bread is still warm, mix the confectioners' sugar and milk to create the glaze. Drizzle it over your bread.
- Decorate with sliced almonds to give your cat and bear character.
10. Enjoy the Magic:
- Let your bread cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
- Get creative with your shapes! You can make any animal or object you like.
- Don't forget to share the magic with your family and friends. They'll be charmed by your playful Stollen-inspired creation.
This Stollen-style Cat & Bear Chocolate Bread is not just a feast for the taste buds; it's a work of art that'll brighten any table and bring smiles to all who indulge. So, let your imagination run wild in the kitchen, and enjoy the sweet magic you've created!