Save 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.
I love making this festive bread every holiday season as it always brings joy and warmth to our family gatherings.
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 Our family loves gathering around the table enjoying this bread; it's a tradition that sweetens the holiday spirit.
Required Tools
Stand mixer or mixing bowl, rolling pin, baking sheet, parchment paper, pastry brush, sharp knife
Notes
For extra holiday flair, decorate with candied cherries or sprinkles after icing. Substitute whole wheat flour for up to half the flour for a nutty flavor. Serve warm with coffee or hot chocolate.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 310, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 48 g, Protein: 6 g per serving
Save This bread is sure to impress your guests and bring holiday cheer. Enjoy every warm, cinnamon-filled bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How is the cinnamon swirl incorporated into the bread?
A cinnamon sugar mixture is spread over softened butter on rolled dough, then rolled and twisted to expose the swirl layers when baked.
- → What is the best way to shape the bread into a tree?
After twisting the dough halves, arrange the dough on parchment paper starting with a wide base and tapering to a point, tucking ends underneath to form a tree shape.
- → Can I substitute ingredients to adjust flavor or texture?
Yes, swapping half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat adds a nutty flavor, and optional iced decorations enhance appearance and taste.
- → What makes the bread soft and tender?
The combination of melted butter, warm milk, and thorough kneading results in a soft, elastic dough that yields tender layers.
- → How can I enhance the festive look of this bread?
Decorate with candied cherries or colorful sprinkles after icing to add holiday flair and visual appeal.
- → Is there a recommended serving suggestion?
Serve warm alongside coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy holiday treat.