Stutenkerl

Stutenkerl or Weckmann is a traditional German pastry, typically enjoyed during the Advent and Saint Nicholas' Day celebrations. It is a type of sweet bread shaped in the form of a man, often decorated with raisins and a clay pipe.

History

The origins of the Stutenkerl are believed to date back to the Middle Ages. The pastry was traditionally baked on December 6th to celebrate Saint Nicholas' Day. The shape of the pastry, a man, is said to represent Saint Nicholas himself.

Preparation

Stutenkerl is made from a sweet yeast dough, similar to that used in other German pastries such as Stollen and Hefezopf. The dough is shaped into a man, often with arms folded across the chest. Raisins are used to create the eyes and buttons, and a clay pipe is often inserted as a decoration.

Regional Variations

While the Stutenkerl is popular throughout Germany, there are regional variations. In the Rhineland, it is known as a Weckmann and is often larger in size. In Westphalia, the pastry is called a Stutenkerl and is typically smaller and less sweet.

Cultural Significance

The Stutenkerl is a significant part of German Advent and Saint Nicholas' Day celebrations. It is often given to children as a treat, and is also popular at Christmas markets. The clay pipe that is often included with the Stutenkerl is a symbol of Saint Nicholas' status as a bishop.

See Also

• German cuisine
• Advent
• Saint Nicholas' Day
• Sweet bread