Save Pin A festive, pull-apart sweet bread shaped like a Christmas tree, featuring soft, buttery layers with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl. Perfect for a holiday brunch centerpiece.
This recipe has become a holiday favorite in my family, bringing everyone together with its delightful aroma and taste.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour , 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar , 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet/7 g) instant yeast , 1/2 tsp fine sea salt , 3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk , warm (about 110°F/43°C) , 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter , melted , 2 large eggs , at room temperature
- Cinnamon Swirl Filling: 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar , packed , 2 tbsp ground cinnamon , 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter , softened
- Egg Wash: 1 egg , 1 tbsp milk
- Icing (optional): 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar , 1-2 tbsp milk , 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl), combine flour , sugar , yeast , and salt.
- Step 2:
- Add warm milk , melted butter , and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Step 3:
- Knead (by hand or with dough hook) for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 4:
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size , about 1 hour.
- Step 5:
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Step 6:
- Punch down dough, then roll out on a lightly floured surface to a 16x12-inch (40x30 cm) rectangle.
- Step 7:
- Spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Sprinkle evenly with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Step 8:
- Starting from one long side, roll up tightly into a log.
- Step 9:
- With a sharp knife , cut the log in half lengthwise. Twist the two halves together , exposing the swirl.
- Step 10:
- Shape the twisted dough into a Christmas tree on a parchment-lined baking sheet: start with a wide base , narrowing to a point. Tuck the ends underneath.
- Step 11:
- Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 12:
- Whisk egg and milk for egg wash ; brush over the bread.
- Step 13:
- Bake for 25-28 minutes , until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 14:
- Cool slightly. For icing , whisk powdered sugar , milk , and vanilla. Drizzle over warm bread before serving.
Save Pin Sharing this bread around the holiday table always creates warm, joyful family moments.
Required Tools
Stand mixer or mixing bowl , Rolling pin , Baking sheet , Parchment paper , Pastry brush , Sharp knife
Nutritional Information
Calories: 310 , Total Fat: 10 g , Carbohydrates: 48 g , Protein: 6 g
Category & Details
Category: Brunch , Holiday Bread , Difficulty: Medium , Cuisine: American , Yield: 8-10 servings , Diet: Vegetarian
Save Pin Enjoy this festive bread warm with coffee or hot chocolate for the perfect holiday treat.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the cinnamon swirl effect?
After rolling out the dough, spread softened butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture before rolling it into a log. Cutting and twisting the log reveals the swirl pattern.
- → Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and shape the dough, then refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature and rise before baking.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze slices wrapped tightly for longer storage.
- → Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?
Whole wheat flour can replace part of the flour for a nuttier flavor. However, the bread contains dairy and eggs, so substitutions might affect texture.
- → How do I ensure the bread stays moist?
Proper rising times and not overbaking are key. Brushing with egg wash and optional icing add moisture and shine to the crust.