Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls
The aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen is one of the best parts of Christmas morning. These Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls bring that cozy feeling to life with a festive twist.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
- Rolling Pin
- Baking Sheet or Pan
- Parchment paper
- Small bowl & spoon
- Oven Mitts
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup warm milk about 110°F / 43°C
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 –3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: green food coloring for a festive touch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Proof the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Pro tip: Milk should feel warm, not hot, to the touch—too hot can kill the yeast.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, and salt.
- Combine with yeast: Pour the foamy yeast mixture into the wet ingredients and stir gently.
- Add flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Pro tip: If the dough is sticky, add a tiny bit of flour at a time—too much flour will make it tough.
- Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and spreadable.
- Set aside while the dough rises.
Step 3: Shape the Cinnamon Trees
- Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar butter over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Cut strips: Cut the dough into long strips about 1–1.5 inches wide.
- Create tree shapes: Twist each strip gently and form it into a triangle shape to resemble a Christmas tree. Trim the ends if needed.
- Place on baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the shaped rolls, leaving some space for them to expand.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Place the rolls in the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool slightly: Remove from the oven and let the rolls cool for 5–10 minutes before icing.
Step 5: Add the Icing
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Optional: Add a few drops of green food coloring for a festive touch.
- Drizzle the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls using a spoon or piping bag.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the soft, gooey goodness!
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 2mg