# Ingredient list:
→ Dough
01 - 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F
06 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
07 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
→ Cinnamon Swirl Filling
08 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
09 - 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
10 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
→ Egg Wash
11 - 1 egg
12 - 1 tablespoon milk
→ Icing (optional)
13 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
14 - 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
15 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, instant yeast, and fine sea salt.
02 - Add warmed whole milk, melted butter, and eggs to the dry mixture; mix until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead the dough by hand or with a dough hook for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover tightly, and let rise at room temperature until doubled in volume, approximately 1 hour.
05 - In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly.
06 - Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 16 by 12-inch rectangle.
07 - Evenly spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered surface.
08 - Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log lengthwise in half.
09 - Twist the two halves together with the cut sides facing upward to reveal the cinnamon swirl.
10 - Arrange the twisted dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet forming a Christmas tree shape, starting wide at the base and narrowing to a point, tucking ends underneath.
11 - Cover loosely and let the shaped dough rise for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F.
12 - Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush evenly over the bread surface.
13 - Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
14 - Allow to cool slightly. If desired, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract and drizzle the icing over the warm bread before serving.
