Stollen (also known as Weihnachtsstollen or Christstollen at Christmas) is a traditional German fruit loaf. It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly when Stollen was first made, but over the centuries it has developed from a very basic pastry – probably eaten by the peasantry – to an enriched bread with religious significance. The traditional baking of Stollen is probably most closely linked with Dresden in the east of Germany where it has played a vital role in the city’s Christmas markets since – it is claimed – the 14th Century.