Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls have a way of bringing warmth and joy, especially during the holiday season. This Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls recipe not only delights the taste buds but also doubles as a festive centerpiece, transforming the ordinary roll into a whimsical treat. With its delightful aroma and the promise of gooey sweetness, this dessert is a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire or a fun family activity during the chilly winter months.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes these Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls a must-try is their playful presentation combined with an irresistible flavor. They embody the spirit of the holidays, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as an after-dinner delight. Plus, they’re not just tasty; they’re quick and budget-friendly. With basic pantry staples and a little time, you can create a magical treat that family and friends will rave about.
"The Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls not only look stunning but taste absolutely heavenly! They became the highlight of our holiday gathering this year." – A satisfied baker.
How this recipe comes together
Preparing Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls may sound daunting, but don’t worry; it’s simpler than you think. This recipe involves creating a soft and tender dough, filling it with a sweet cinnamon mixture, and then shaping it into a festive tree. The process unfolds in a few straightforward steps, ensuring that you can easily follow along and impress your guests.
What you’ll need
To whip up these delightful cinnamon rolls, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups warm milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! You can substitute almond milk for a dairy-free option or use maple syrup instead of sugar for a unique twist.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and gradually incorporate the flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour.
- After rising, roll the dough out into a rectangle and spread melted butter over the surface.
- Evenly sprinkle the ground cinnamon and brown sugar, then roll the dough tightly and cut it into individual rolls.
- Arrange the rolls into a Christmas tree shape on a baking sheet.
- Allow the rolls to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to create an icing, then drizzle it over the warm rolls before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm and fresh out of the oven, but they also make a great addition to a holiday brunch spread. Pair these rolls with a side of fresh fruit or a warm cup of spiced cider to elevate your festive gathering. You can even funnel the joy by letting your guests decorate their own rolls with toppings like chopped nuts or sprinkles.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your leftover cinnamon rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Extra advice
Here are a few tips for making your cinnamon rolls even better:
- Ensure your milk is warm but not too hot; it should feel like warm bath water. Hot milk might kill the yeast.
- Knead the dough just enough to make it smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls.
- Experiment with fillings! Try adding finely chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
Creative twists
While these Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls are delightful as is, you can mix things up a bit. Try adding different spices like nutmeg for a warm twist or using cream cheese in the icing for a richer flavor. You can also shape the rolls into wreaths instead of trees for a different holiday vibe!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls?
The total time, including rising, is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your dough rising times.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day ahead, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Are there any substitutions I can make?
Absolutely! You can use non-dairy milk for a vegan option, and you could replace the butter with coconut oil if desired. Just remember to check the measurements as different fats behave differently in baking.
Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and gradually incorporate the flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour.
- After rising, roll the dough out into a rectangle and spread melted butter over the surface.
- Evenly sprinkle the ground cinnamon and brown sugar, then roll the dough tightly and cut it into individual rolls.
- Arrange the rolls into a Christmas tree shape on a baking sheet.
- Allow the rolls to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to create an icing, then drizzle it over the warm rolls before serving.
