Pin to Board A festive, pull-apart sweet bread shaped like a Christmas tree, featuring soft, buttery layers with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl. Perfect for a holiday brunch centerpiece.
This bread has become a holiday tradition in our family and always impresses guests with its beautiful design and delicious flavor.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet/7 g) instant yeast, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, 3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk warm (about 110°F/43°C), 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter melted, 2 large eggs at room temperature
- Cinnamon Swirl Filling: 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar packed, 2 tbsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter softened
- Egg Wash: 1 egg, 1 tbsp milk
- Icing (optional): 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, 1-2 tbsp milk, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl), combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Step 2:
- Add warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Step 3:
- Knead (by hand or with dough hook) for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 4:
- Place dough in a greased bowl cover and let rise until doubled in size about 1 hour.
- Step 5:
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Step 6:
- Punch down dough then roll out on a lightly floured surface to a 16x12-inch (40x30 cm) rectangle.
- Step 7:
- Spread softened butter over the dough leaving a 1/2-inch border. Sprinkle evenly with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Step 8:
- Starting from one long side roll up tightly into a log.
- Step 9:
- With a sharp knife cut the log in half lengthwise. Twist the two halves together exposing the swirl.
- Step 10:
- Shape the twisted dough into a Christmas tree on a parchment-lined baking sheet start with a wide base narrowing to a point. Tuck the ends underneath.
- Step 11:
- Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 12:
- Whisk egg and milk for egg wash brush over the bread.
- Step 13:
- Bake for 25-28 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 14:
- Cool slightly. For icing whisk powdered sugar milk and vanilla. Drizzle over warm bread before serving.
Pin to Board Sharing this bread at Christmas has created many joyful family memories around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful holiday treat.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Variations
Try adding chopped nuts or dried fruit to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Pin to Board 
Enjoy this beautiful and delicious bread as your centerpiece this holiday season.
Common Questions
- → What type of flour is best for this bread?
All-purpose flour works well, but substituting half with whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and heartier texture.
- → How do I achieve the distinct cinnamon swirl?
Spread softened butter evenly on rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture before rolling tightly into a log.
- → Can I prepare this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and final shaped bread, refrigerate overnight, then bring to room temperature before baking.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftover bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → What can I use instead of egg wash?
You can substitute egg wash with milk or a dairy-free butter alternative brushed on top for a golden finish.
- → Is decorating the bread necessary?
Decorations like candied cherries or sprinkles add festive flair but are optional and can be applied after icing.