Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree: Create a Festive Masterpiece with Creamy Frosting

Imagine the joy of waking up on a chilly winter morning, the air filled with the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. This tradition has been a special part of my holiday celebrations for as long as I can remember. The anticipation of gathering around the table with loved ones, ready to share a delightful breakfast, brings an unparalleled warmth to the heart. This year, I’m excited to share a fun twist on this classic treat—a Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree.

Creating a Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree is not just about baking; it’s about crafting a centerpiece that embodies the spirit of togetherness and joy. The process of rolling, slicing, and arranging these rolls into a festive tree shape is both therapeutic and rewarding. It’s a wonderful way to connect with family, especially when everyone pitches in to decorate with holiday sprinkles.

The Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree has become a staple in my holiday baking repertoire. It’s a conversation starter, a show-stopper, and, most importantly, a delicious treat that everyone loves. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring a successful and enjoyable baking experience. Let’s dive into the fundamentals and start this festive cooking adventure.

Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 11 rolls 1x

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Description

Discover how to create a stunning Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree that will impress your holiday guests. Follow our easy recipe for a delicious festive treat!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3/4 cup (185ml) whole milk
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter
• 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) coarse salt
• 1 (7g) package or 2 1/4 teaspoons Red Star Active Dry Yeast
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup (105g) light or dark brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons (10 ml) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 2 ounces (56g) cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 2 cups (227g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 2–3 tablespoons (38 ml) milk or fruit juice
• Holiday sprinkles (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat the milk and butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat until the butter is fully melted and the temperature is between 120-130°F.
2. In a stand mixer bowl with a dough hook attached, or a large bowl if mixing manually, combine 1 1/2 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
3. Pour in the warm milk and butter blend along with the egg, stirring to form a wet dough.
4. While the mixer is on, gradually add the rest of the flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough nearly pulls away from the bowl sides but remains slightly sticky. Knead until smooth and stretchy.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot to let the dough rise until it doubles in size, about an hour.
6. Deflate the dough gently to release any air, then knead it back into a round shape. Allow it to rest for a few minutes as you prepare the filling.
7. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle roughly 12×17 inches, being flexible with the size.
8. Evenly coat the rolled-out dough with melted butter, then sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon across the top.
9. Roll the dough into a log starting from a long side. Trim the ends for a clean edge and slice into 11 pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
10. Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a tree formation: 1 roll on the top row, 2 on the next, 3 on the following, 4 on the row after that, and 1 more for the trunk at the bottom.
11. Wrap with plastic and let them rise in a warm area until doubled once more, for 20-30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F during this time.
12. Bake the rolls until they turn golden brown, approximately 22-25 minutes.
13. For the frosting, in a bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk or juice until smooth and creamy. Adjust with more liquid if needed for a spreadable texture.
14. Apply the frosting over the warm or cooled rolls and, if you like, add holiday sprinkles on top.

Notes

• Consider using dark brown sugar in the filling for a richer caramel flavor.
• Add a splash of lemon juice to the cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist.
• Sprinkle chopped nuts or raisins over the cinnamon-sugar filling for extra decadence.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 4g

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, holiday baking, cream cheese frosting, sweet dough, festive dessert, warm and gooey

Creating the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree

Fundamentals

To craft a Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree, you need to start with the right ingredients and techniques. The magic starts with a simple yet effective dough, which forms the base of our cinnamon rolls. With all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and a few other pantry staples, you can create a dough that’s both soft and flavorful.

The key to a successful dough lies in the balance of ingredients and the proofing process. Heating the milk and butter to the right temperature is crucial as it activates the yeast without killing it. This ensures your dough rises beautifully, giving you fluffy and tender rolls. Trust the process, and remember to be patient as the dough rises, doubling in size.

Preparation/setup

Begin by gathering all your ingredients to keep the process smooth and organized. Measure the flour, sugar, and yeast accurately to ensure consistency in the dough. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment eases the kneading process, but you can also do this manually if you prefer a more hands-on approach.

Once your dough is ready, let it rise in a warm, draft-free area. Covering the bowl with plastic wrap helps create a humid environment that encourages the yeast to work its magic. As the dough rises, you can prepare the filling by mixing brown sugar and cinnamon, and melting the butter for easy spreading.

Mastering the Technique of Cinnamon Roll Trees

Technique

Rolling out the dough is a critical step in achieving the perfect Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree. Aim for a rectangle approximately 12×17 inches in size, ensuring an even thickness. This will help the rolls bake uniformly. Spread the melted butter over the dough, followed by an even sprinkling of the cinnamon sugar mixture.

When rolling the dough into a log, start from a long side. This ensures you get more swirls in each roll, enhancing both the look and flavor. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice the log into even pieces, which will form the branches of your Christmas tree.

Tips and Tricks

For a neat tree shape, trim the ends of your rolled log before slicing into pieces. Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, starting with a single roll at the top, two beneath it, and so on. This pyramid arrangement is the hallmark of a Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree.

Letting the rolls rise again before baking is essential for achieving the right texture. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap and place in a warm spot. While they rise, preheat your oven to ensure it’s ready for baking. This second rise allows the rolls to become extra fluffy and tender.

Perfecting Your Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree

Perfecting Results

Baking your Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree to a golden brown is the ultimate goal. Keep a close eye on them in the oven, as baking times can vary slightly based on your oven’s calibration. The rolls should have a beautiful golden hue and a slightly crisp exterior while remaining soft inside.

Once out of the oven, let your rolls cool slightly before applying the cream cheese frosting. This ensures the frosting doesn’t melt away completely, maintaining its creamy texture. The frosting is the crowning glory of these rolls, adding a rich and tangy contrast to the sweet cinnamon filling.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your dough doesn’t rise as expected, ensure that the yeast is active and that the milk wasn’t too hot when combined. If you prefer a different frosting, consider experimenting with flavors like vanilla or almond extract. You can also add nuts or dried fruits to the filling for extra texture and flavor.

For a unique twist, check out these Cinnamon Roll Banana Rolls, which offer a delightful variation with a fruity touch. There are countless ways to make this recipe your own, ensuring that your Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree is a reflection of your personal taste.

Serving and Storing Your Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree

Serving and Presentation

To serve your Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree, carefully transfer it to a large serving platter. Drizzle or spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the rolls, allowing it to cascade down like snow on a tree. For a festive flair, sprinkle holiday-themed decorations across the top.

This stunning centerpiece will make a memorable addition to any holiday table. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa, enhancing the cozy atmosphere of a holiday morning. Enjoy the delight on your guests’ faces as they pull apart the rolls, revealing the gooey, cinnamon-filled swirls within.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be reheated in the oven at a low temperature to restore their original softness. For longer storage, consider freezing individual rolls and reheating them as needed, ensuring you can enjoy your Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree at any time.

For more inspiration on cinnamon roll creations, explore these creative cinnamon roll recipes. These variations will keep your baking exciting and delicious, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree is a delightful way to celebrate the festive season. Its unique shape and delicious flavor make it a standout on any holiday table. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a stunning and tasty centerpiece that will impress both family and friends.

This recipe showcases the beauty of homemade baking and the joy it brings to everyone involved. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for a later treat, this Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree is sure to become a beloved holiday tradition. Embrace the creativity and warmth that comes with baking from scratch and share the love with those around you.

FAQs – Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree