Cinnamon Swirl Christmas Tree (Print version)

A festive pull-apart bread with soft layers and a rich cinnamon swirl, ideal for holiday brunch occasions.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed to 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 large 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

# Directions:

01 - In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
02 - Add warm milk, melted butter, and eggs; mix until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead by hand or mixer dough hook for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, approximately 1 hour.
05 - Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
06 - Punch down dough and roll on a lightly floured surface into a 16 by 12-inch rectangle.
07 - Spread softened butter over dough leaving a 1/2-inch border; sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture evenly.
08 - Roll dough tightly from one long edge into a log.
09 - Cut log lengthwise in half; twist halves together exposing swirls.
10 - Arrange twisted dough on parchment-lined baking sheet into a Christmas tree shape, tucking ends underneath.
11 - Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.
12 - Whisk egg and milk; brush over dough surface.
13 - Bake for 25 to 28 minutes until golden and cooked through.
14 - Allow to cool slightly. Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for icing and drizzle over warm bread.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Soft buttery layers
  • Rich cinnamon-sugar swirl
02 -
  • Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (milk butter)
  • Can substitute whole wheat flour for up to half the flour for a nutty flavor
03 -
  • Decorate with candied cherries or sprinkles after icing for extra holiday flair
  • Serve warm with coffee or hot chocolate
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