Almond Stollen (Mandelstollen)

Ingredients [metric]

• 2 packages dry yeast
• 1/2 c sugar
• 1 1/8 c milk
• 3 1/2 c flour
• 1/4 tsp cardamom
• 1/2 c butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 1/3 c almonds, finely ground
• 1 2/3 Tbs butter, melted
• 1/2 c powdered sugar

Directions

Heat the milk to about 100 degrees F. Stir in 1 tsp sugar and the yeast, and let sit until it begins to bubble.

Meanwhile, stir the cardamom into the flour, and cut or beat the softened butter into the flour.

When the yeast mixture is ready, stir the egg and salt into the milk-yeast mixture, then mix in to the flour. When the dough starts to come together, add the ground almonds and knead until dough is springy. It will still be soft.

Return to a bowl (if needed), brush a little oil on the top, cover, and allow to rise for one hour in a warm place.

Punch dough down and knead into a ball. Cut the ball in half. Lay one half cut-side down on a lightly floured surface and roll into an oval. Using the rolling pin, firmly indent the dough just off center. Fold dough at the indentation, and use the rolling pin to gently press the top fold into the bottom of the dough. Repeat with the other half of the dough. Cover, and allow to rise for an hour in a warm place.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F 20 minutes before the dough needs to go into the oven. Bake for 45 minutes to an hour, until the loaf is brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Cool at least 10 minutes.

Brush loaves with the melted butter, and sift or shake powdered sugar over.