Introduction

The holiday season is a magical time, filled with warmth, joy, and, of course, delightful treats in our kitchens. Among these, Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls stand out as a festive and visually stunning centerpiece for any breakfast or brunch gathering. Shaped like a Christmas tree and bursting with cinnamon-spiced goodness, these rolls are sure to bring cheer to your table.

These whimsical rolls are not just a feast for the eyes; they combine soft, pillowy dough with a rich filling of cinnamon and sugar, culminating in a warm, buttery glaze that drizzles down each layer. Every bite evokes the spirit of Christmas, making them a perfect way to start the day during the holidays, or to enjoy with family and friends while sharing stories by the fire.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
This forms the base of your dough, providing structure and chewiness. The flour's protein content contributes to gluten development, which gives the rolls their lovely texture.
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
Yeast is the leavening agent that helps the dough rise. It ferments the sugars, producing carbon dioxide and alcohol, resulting in airy and soft rolls.
1 cup whole milk
Whole milk adds richness and moisture to the dough. It also activates the yeast and helps to create a tender roll with a slight sweetness.
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Sugar not only sweetens the dough, but also feeds the yeast, helping it to bloom and ensuring a light, fluffy texture in the rolls.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Butter adds flavor and richness to the dough, while also contributing to its soft texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the rolls.
2 large eggs
Eggs provide fat, moisture, and leavening, which helps the dough rise. They also contribute to the rich flavor and color of the rolls.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon is essential for the filling, imparting a warm, sweet spice that enhances the flavor profile of the rolls, making them perfect for the holiday season.
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
Brown sugar adds depth and moisture to the filling, caramelizing beautifully as it bakes, resulting in a sweet and sticky texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the rolls, adding a subtle sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
Powdered sugar is used to create a sweet, smooth glaze that adds a finishing touch to the cinnamon rolls, enhancing their appearance and flavor.
2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
This will be combined with powdered sugar to achieve the right consistency for the glaze. Adjusting the liquid creates a drizzling texture.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Warm the milk and dissolve the yeast

Start by gently warming the milk to around 110°F. It's crucial not to overheat, as too much heat can kill the yeast. Dissolve the yeast in this warm milk, allowing it to bloom for about 5-10 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to help your dough rise.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures even distribution and prevents clumping, which creates a homogeneous dough. The salt, while often overlooked, plays a vital role in enhancing flavor and controlling yeast activity.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients with dry

Once the yeast has bloomed, add it to the flour mixture along with softened butter and eggs. Stir until a dough forms, which should be shaggy at this stage. The butter should coat the flour, adding a rich flavor and moisture; the eggs enhance the dough's structure and tenderness.

Step 4: Knead the dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it's smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which is key for the rolls to rise properly and have a chewy, pillowy texture. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 5: Let the dough rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 1 to 1.5 hours. This fermentation process allows the dough to develop flavor and texture, and is crucial for achieving fluffy rolls.

Step 6: Prepare the filling

While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a bowl. This filling is key for flavor, providing a sweet, spiced pop in every bite. Make sure it's well combined to ensure an even distribution throughout the rolls.

Step 7: Roll out the dough

Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. This step is vital; an even roll ensures that the filling is distributed uniformly, and every piece of dough will have an equally sweet and spiced interior.

Step 8: Spread the filling and shape the rolls

Use a spatula to spread the butter evenly over the dough rectangle, followed by the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Roll the dough tightly along the longest side to form a log. Cut the log into even slices. This method creates distinct layers of cinnamon flavor in each roll, increasing both visual appeal and taste.

Step 9: Arrange the rolls on a baking tray

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and arrange the cut rolls in a tree-like shape, with the base wider and tapering towards the top. This unique presentation adds to the festive spirit, and ensures that each roll has space to expand while baking without losing their structured shape.

Step 10: Let the rolls rise again

Cover the arranged rolls and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes. This second proof is essential; it helps develop flavor and texture further, creating a light and airy roll that will bake beautifully in the oven.

Step 11: Preheat the oven and bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and then bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Monitoring the color is key; overbaking can lead to dry rolls while underbaking may leave them doughy inside. A perfectly baked roll should be golden on the outside and soft within.

Step 12: Make the glaze

While the rolls are baking, combine powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the milk for a thinner or thicker consistency. The glaze not only adds sweetness but also enhances the visual appeal, giving the rolls a lovely finish.

Step 13: Drizzle glaze and serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over them. The warmth of the rolls helps the glaze to melt slightly into the crevices, enhancing every bite. Serve warm and enjoy the festive spirit with your family and friends!

Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls step photo

The Magic of Cinnamon and Sugar

Cinnamon and sugar is a classic combination that elevates many baked goods, and in these Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls, they create a warm aroma that fills your kitchen with holiday cheer. The sweetness of the sugar balances the spice of cinnamon, resulting in a comforting flavor profile that many associate with Christmas. This filling not only tastes delightful but also creates a spiral of flavor inside the rolls, making each bite a memorable experience.

Creating the Perfect Dough

The dough's texture is crucial in determining the success of your cinnamon rolls. Using the right temperature for your liquids and allowing the dough ample time to rise are two key factors in achieving that soft, pillowy result. Kneading the dough until it becomes elastic ensures gluten development, leading to a light and airy structure. Each of these steps sets the foundation for a roll that is both flavorful and satisfying.

Presentation is Everything

Shaping the rolls into a Christmas tree not only adds a festive touch but also invites interaction at the table. The tiered arrangement highlights each individual roll, making them easy to serve and share. The visual impact of this unique shape adds excitement to your holiday gatherings, turning a simple breakfast item into a centerpiece that sparks conversation and joy.

FAQs

Why are my rolls too thick or dense?

If your rolls are dense, it may be due to insufficient kneading or not allowing enough time to rise. Ensure that you knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic, and give it plenty of time to rise until it has doubled.

What do I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, add small amounts of flour incrementally until it becomes manageable. However, avoid adding too much, as this can result in dry rolls.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount and skip the proofing step; simply mix it with the dry ingredients.

How can I enhance the flavor of my glaze?

To enhance the glaze, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of almond extract for depth and richness.

What if my cinnamon filling is bland?

If your cinnamon filling tastes bland, consider increasing the amount of cinnamon and sugar. Tasting the filling before applying it helps prevent this issue.

Can I make this without using eggs?

Yes, eggs can be substituted with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) or applesauce to maintain moisture and binding.

Conclusion

These Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they are an experience that captures the essence of the holiday season. With their delightful flavor and charming presentation, they are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home.

Don't hesitate to get creative with your fillings and decorations, as the possibilities are as endless as your imagination. Embrace the joy of baking these festive rolls, and share the love with your family and friends this holiday season.

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