Cinnamon Swirl Christmas Tree (Printable Version)

Soft, buttery cinnamon swirl sweet bread shaped like a festive Christmas tree, ideal for holiday brunches.

# 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 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 - 1–2 tablespoons milk
15 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

# How to Make:

01 - Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl.
02 - Add warm milk, melted butter, and eggs; mix until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead by hand or with dough hook for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and allow to rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
05 - Combine brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
06 - Punch down risen dough and roll out on lightly floured surface into a 16x12 inch rectangle.
07 - Spread softened butter evenly over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border; sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
08 - Starting from one long edge, roll dough tightly into a log.
09 - Cut log lengthwise in half with a sharp knife, then twist the two halves together exposing the swirl.
10 - Form twisted dough on parchment-lined baking sheet into a Christmas tree shape, tucking the ends underneath.
11 - Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes while preheating oven to 350°F.
12 - Whisk egg with milk and brush evenly over the dough surface.
13 - Bake for 25 to 28 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
14 - Allow bread to cool slightly. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make icing; drizzle over warm bread before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Perfect for a holiday brunch centerpiece
  • Soft, buttery layers with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl
02 -
  • Contains wheat (gluten) eggs and dairy (milk butter)
  • Substitute whole wheat flour for up to half the flour for a nutty flavor
03 -
  • Use room temperature eggs for better dough texture
  • Make sure to let the dough rise sufficiently for a fluffy result
Go Back