When the holiday spirit starts to fill the air, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of baked treats wafting through the kitchen. I recently discovered the joy of making No-Yeast Christmas Stollen Muffins, a delightful twist on traditional German Christmas bread that captures all the festive flavors we crave. Imagine the spice of cardamom mingling with the sweetness of candied fruit and the crunch of slivered almonds—these muffins transform your kitchen into a winter wonderland!
Perfect for busy mornings or unexpected gatherings, this quick and easy recipe comes together without the fuss of yeast. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven with a cup of coffee or presenting them at a holiday brunch, these muffins will surely impress all guests. They balance rich holiday spices with a light, fluffy texture that makes each bite a celebration of the season. Join me as we embrace the spirit of Christmas baking with these simple yet scrumptious Stollen Muffins that will fill your home with warmth and cheer!
Why are Christmas Stollen Muffins a must-try?
Festive Spirit: These muffins are a heartwarming embodiment of the holiday season, bringing the scents of cardamom and nutmeg into your home.
Quick Preparation: No waiting for dough to rise! This no-yeast recipe means you can indulge in a delicious treat in under 30 minutes.
Delightful Texture: Enjoy the perfect blend of fluffy muffin and crunchy slivered almonds topped with a sweet sugar dusting.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With the perfect balance of sweetness from candied fruit and richness from almond extract, everyone will love them!
Versatile Serving Options: Whether as a holiday breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, these muffins can be enjoyed any time of day.
Baking Simplicity: You’ll only need basic kitchen staples to whip up this delightful recipe, making it approachable for bakers of any skill level!
Christmas Stollen Muffins Ingredients
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For the Muffin Batter
• Raisins – Provides sweetness and chewiness; alternative: use golden raisins for a lighter flavor.
• Rum/Brandy/Amaretto – Adds depth and complexity to the muffin flavor; substitution: skip alcohol and use warm milk instead.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure of the muffins; note: ensure it’s measured correctly for consistency.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the muffins and contributes to browning; no direct substitutes needed for this recipe.
• Cardamom – Provides warmth and a distinctive aromatic quality; substitution: use ground cinnamon if unavailable.
• Mace – Enhances the fragrant profile of the muffins; substitution: use allspice if mace isn’t available.
• Nutmeg – Adds a warm, nutty flavor that complements the holiday spices; note: freshly grated nutmeg gives the best flavor.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for rising; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Baking Soda – Works alongside baking powder for added lift and texture; note: do not omit; it balances acidity in the recipe.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; required for flavor; do not omit.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps muffins moist and tender; substitution: can use melted butter or a light oil alternative.
• Milk (Buttermilk/Half and Half) – Adds moisture and richness; substitution: use any milk variety for desired richness.
• Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; no alternatives recommended for egg-free.
• Almond Extract – Infuses a nutty flavor reminiscent of traditional stollen; substitution: omit if allergic; consider vanilla as an alternative.
• Slivered Almonds – Adds crunch and nutty flavor; alternative: can use chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Candied Fruit – Provides sweetness and a festive look; substitution: dried fruit can be used in place of candied varieties. -
For the Topping
• Butter (for topping) – Enhances richness and helps powdered sugar stick; use unsalted butter for better flavor control.
• Confectioner’s Sugar – Topping that adds sweetness and visual appeal; no substitutes; it’s integral for the Christmas Stollen Muffins experience.
How to Make Christmas Stollen Muffins
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by greasing it with butter or lining it with paper liners for easy removal.
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Soak: Take your raisins and soak them in your chosen spirit for about 10 minutes, which helps plump them up and infuse them with flavor. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, warm milk works beautifully too!
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Whisk: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cardamom, mace, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
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Mix: Add in the vegetable oil, milk, eggs, and almond extract. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. You want a lovely batter that’s both thick and creamy.
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Fold: Gently fold the soaked raisins, slivered almonds, and candied fruit into the batter, ensuring all the goodies are evenly distributed throughout.
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Pour: Divide the luscious batter evenly between the muffin tin cups, filling each about 2/3 full for a perfect rise.
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Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are puffed and have turned golden brown on top.
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Cool & Top: Allow the muffins to cool slightly in the tin for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack. Brush the tops with melted butter and generously dust with confectioner’s sugar while they’re still warm.
Optional: For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some extra slivered almonds on top before baking!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Christmas Stollen Muffins
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smoother batter for your Christmas Stollen Muffins.
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Don’t Overmix: When incorporating wet and dry ingredients, stir just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of light and fluffy ones.
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Check Freshness: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; expired leaveners can prevent your muffins from rising properly.
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Customize Your Mix-Ins: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Mix in different nuts or dried fruits to create personal variations of these Christmas Stollen Muffins.
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Storage Note: Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature; they’re best enjoyed within two days but can be microwaved for a quick refresh!
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Serving Temperature: For an extra special treat, serve muffins warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese for delightful indulgence.
Christmas Stollen Muffins Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make these muffins your own with these fun twists!
- Nut-Free: Substitute slivered almonds with pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without nuts.
- Citrus Zest: Add fresh orange or lemon zest to the batter for a bright, invigorating flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or a dash of cayenne for a warm kick.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and choose plant-based milk for a lovely vegan version.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a rich and decadent surprise in every muffin.
- Dried Fruit: Use a mix of your favorite dried fruits—apricots, cherries, or cranberries can add delightful variation.
- Herbal Note: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique savory touch amidst the sweet.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious, gluten-free option.
Each of these variations can bring new life to your holiday baking, ensuring every batch feels fresh and exciting!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Stollen Muffins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, spices, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) up to 3 days ahead. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Additionally, soak the raisins in your chosen spirit or warm milk up to 24 hours in advance to infuse them with flavor. When you’re ready to bake, just mix the prepared dry ingredients with the wet components (oil, milk, eggs, and almond extract), fold in the soaked raisins along with slivered almonds and candied fruit, and proceed with baking. This way, you can enjoy these delightful muffins just as deliciously without the morning rush!
What to Serve with Christmas Stollen Muffins?
Delight your senses with a festive spread that perfectly complements the warmth and sweetness of these holiday muffins.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant, juicy fruits like pomegranate seeds, citrus, and berries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich muffins.
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Spiced Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a cozy cup of hot chocolate infused with cinnamon or nutmeg that beautifully echoes the spices in the muffins.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes for a luscious addition that enhances every bite of the muffins.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle over the muffins creates a sweet harmony, with maple’s earthy notes dancing alongside the candied fruit.
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Coffee or Tea: Brewing a pot of fragrant coffee or spiced herbal tea provides the perfect warm beverage pairing for your holiday treat.
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Cinnamon Butter Spread: Serve warm muffins with a rich cinnamon butter that melts delightfully, amplifying their cozy flavor profile.
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Candied Ginger: Adding small pieces of candied ginger on the side introduces a slightly spicy touch that complements the muffin’s sweetness.
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Mulled Wine: For a festive twist, serve a glass of warm spiced mulled wine; its aromatic flavors blend seamlessly with the essence of the muffins.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Stollen Muffins
Room Temperature: Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Refrigerator: If you’d like to store them longer, you can place the muffins in the fridge for up to 5 days; just remember to keep them sealed to avoid dryness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: When you’re ready to indulge, simply microwave a muffin for 15-20 seconds to restore its warmth and softness, perfect for those Christmas Stollen Muffin cravings!
Christmas Stollen Muffins Recipe FAQs
What type of raisins should I use?
You can use regular raisins for a traditional flavor, but I recommend golden raisins for a lighter, sweeter option. They add a beautiful visual contrast and contribute to the soft texture of these delightful muffins.
How should I store leftover muffins?
Absolutely! Store leftover Christmas Stollen Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days—just be sure to seal them well to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze my Christmas Stollen Muffins?
Very! To freeze, place the muffins in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container, ensuring they’re not touching to avoid sticking. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back their warmth and softness.
What if my muffins don’t rise properly?
If your Christmas Stollen Muffins don’t rise, it might be due to expired baking powder or baking soda, or possibly overmixing the batter. Ensure these ingredients are fresh and measure accurately. When mixing wet and dry ingredients, combine them just until moist to avoid a dense muffin.
Are these muffins suitable for people with nut allergies?
If anyone has a nut allergy, simply omit the slivered almonds and almond extract. These muffins are versatile, and you can replace the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or even leave them out altogether for a nut-free treat.
What’s the best way to serve these muffins?
You can serve these Christmas Stollen Muffins warm, fresh from the oven, paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an enchanting holiday treat. For an extra touch of indulgence, spread a bit of butter or cream cheese on top before serving!
Quick & Easy Christmas Stollen Muffins for Festive Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin.
- Soak raisins in chosen spirit for 10 minutes or use warm milk.
- Whisk together flour, sugar, cardamom, mace, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix in vegetable oil, milk, eggs, and almond extract until smooth.
- Fold in soaked raisins, slivered almonds, and candied fruit.
- Divide the batter evenly in muffin cups, filling each 2/3 full.
- Bake in the oven for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack and top with butter and confectioner’s sugar.