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From-Scratch Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls

Close-up of several freshly baked christmas tree cinnamon rolls generously drizzled with white icing on a white plate.
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Create a show-stopping holiday centerpiece with these soft, gooey cinnamon rolls shaped into a festive Christmas tree. This recipe provides clear steps for shaping the dough and includes an option for using store-bought dough for a quick holiday breakfast.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ½ cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • For the Filling:
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • For the Icing:
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Green food coloring (optional)
  • For Assembly:
  • 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
  • Optional: Red and green sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix Dough: Add the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  3. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare Filling: While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.
  5. Roll and Fill: Punch down the risen dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border on one long edge.
  6. Cut Strips: Cut the dough rectangle lengthwise into three equal strips. You will have three long strips of filled dough.
  7. Shape the Tree: Arrange the three strips side-by-side on a piece of parchment paper. Cut diagonal slices along the outer edges of the strips to create the triangular tree shape. You should have a wide base and a narrow top.
  8. Form the Tree: Gently twist each strip slightly to expose some of the filling. Arrange the three twisted strips on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper to form a large Christmas tree shape. Press the ends together gently.
  9. Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough loosely and let it rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  10. Bake: Brush the dough lightly with the egg wash. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  11. Make Icing: While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add a drop of green food coloring if desired.
  12. Decorate: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. Drizzle generously with the icing and immediately sprinkle with festive sprinkles. Serve warm.
  13. Quick Option: To use store-bought dough, unroll two cans of pre-made cinnamon rolls. Cut the rolls into strips and arrange them on a baking sheet in the tree shape as described in steps 6-8. Bake according to package directions, then ice.

Notes

  • For overnight preparation, complete steps 1 through 6, cover the shaped dough tightly, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Before baking, let the dough sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then proceed with the second rise (step 9).
  • Use a small, star-shaped cookie cutter to cut a star from a piece of leftover dough or a slice of bread to place at the top of the tree.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with bread flour.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/christmas-tree-cinnamon-rolls-recipe/