Christmas Stollen

Directions

1. 1
   Dissolve yeast in warm water; add sugar, salt, eggs, butter and half of the flour.
2. 2
   Beat 10 minutes at medium speed on mixer or by hand.
3. 3
   Blend in rest of flour, almonds and fruits.
4. 4
   Cover; let rise in warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
5. 5
   Stir down batter by beating 25 strokes.
6. 6
   Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight.
7. 7
   On well floured board, divide dough in half, press each half into a 10 x 7-inch oval sheet.
8. 8
   Spread with 2 tablespoons soft butter or margarine.
9. 9
   Fold each in two length-ways, firmly pressing edges in place on greased baking sheet.
10. 10
    Brush top with slightly beaten egg whites mixed with 1 tablespoon water.
11. 11
    Let rise in warm place until light.
12. 12
    Bake at 375° for 20 minutes or until done.
13. 13
    When cool, frost and decorate with almonds and cherries.
14. 14
    Makes 2.