Stollen Bites: A Festive Treat

Stollen, a traditional German fruit bread, is a beloved treat during the Christmas season. Stollen bites are a smaller, individual-sized version of this classic bread, making them perfect for parties, gifting, or simply enjoying as a sweet snack.

Ingredients:

* 1 package (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
* ½ cup warm water (110-115°F)
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
* 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* 1 cup warm milk (110-115°F)
* ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* ½ cup chopped dried cranberries
* ½ cup chopped dried cherries
* ½ cup chopped almonds
* ½ cup golden raisins

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water with 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar.
3. Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, butter, egg, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
7. Shape each piece into a ball and place on a greased baking sheet.
8. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until nearly doubled in size.
9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. In a small bowl, combine the cranberries, cherries, almonds, and raisins.
11. Gently press the center of each dough ball down and fill with a spoonful of the fruit mixture.
12. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
13. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips:

* For a sweeter stollen, add ½ cup of granulated sugar to the dough.
* For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips or chopped hazelnuts instead of almonds.
* Stollen bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Enjoy these festive and delicious stollen bites during the holiday season or anytime you crave a sweet treat!