Oh, the joy of holiday baking! There’s something truly magical about filling your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon and sugar, especially when you’re crafting these delightful *Christmas tree cinnamon rolls*. Imagine pulling these festive treats out of the oven, shaped like a cheerful Christmas tree, all golden and gooey, just waiting to be drizzled with icing. I remember the first time I made these rolls; my kids couldn’t stop smiling as they helped decorate the tree, and we all enjoyed a slice together, feeling the holiday spirit swirl around us. Trust me, these rolls not only taste heavenly but also bring everyone together during this special season. They’re perfect for Christmas morning or any festive gathering, and I can’t wait for you to try them! You’re going to love how easy they are to whip up and how much joy they bring!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup icing sugar
- 1 tablespoon water (for icing)
How to Prepare *Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls*
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
First things first, let’s get that dough ready! Start by warming up your milk and butter in a small saucepan over low heat. You want it just warm enough to melt the butter—don’t let it boil! Once melted, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast until well combined. Then, add the warm milk and the egg into the dry mixture. Stir it all together until a shaggy dough forms. It’s okay if it looks a bit messy; that’s how we know we’re on the right track!
Step 2: Knead and Rise
Now comes the fun part—kneading! Dust your countertop with a little flour and turn the dough out onto it. Knead it for about 5 minutes, adding a sprinkle of flour if it’s too sticky. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic. Once you’re done kneading, place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This is where the magic happens, so be patient—your dough will be fluffy and ready to roll in no time!
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Now, sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the dough, spreading it out to the edges. Time to roll it up tightly from one long side to the other, creating a log of deliciousness! Cut the log into about 12 equal pieces. Now, here’s where creativity shines! Arrange the pieces on a baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, stacking them slightly to give it that festive flair. Don’t forget to leave some space between the rolls for them to rise again!
Step 4: Bake and Ice
Cover the shaped rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. While they’re rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once they’ve puffed up, pop them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until they’re golden brown and smell divine! While they’re baking, you can prepare the icing by mixing the icing sugar with the tablespoon of water until smooth. Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle that luscious icing all over them. Trust me, this finishing touch takes them to the next level!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Presentation: These adorable cinnamon rolls shaped like a Christmas tree are sure to be a showstopper on your holiday table, bringing smiles to everyone who sees them!
- Delicious Flavor: The warm, comforting combination of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a heavenly aroma and taste that captures the essence of the holiday season.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up without a hitch!
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s Christmas morning or a cozy gathering with friends, these rolls are perfect for sharing and creating memorable moments.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even a splash of vanilla to the icing for a personal twist that makes them uniquely yours!
- Great for Meal Prep: Make them ahead of time and freeze before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready for a warm, fresh treat!
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast packet. Fresh yeast gives the best rise and keeps those rolls fluffy and light. If you’re unsure, you can proof the yeast by mixing it with warm milk and a pinch of sugar before adding it to your dry ingredients. If it bubbles up, you’re good to go!
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: When kneading, just go until the dough is smooth and elastic—about 5 minutes should do it. Overworking can make the rolls tough, and nobody wants that!
- Temperature Matters: For the best results, make sure your milk and butter are warm but not hot. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold can slow down the rising process. Aim for a cozy, warm spot for your dough to rise—your oven with the light on works wonders!
- Mind the Timing: Patience is key! Allow the dough to rise until it’s doubled in size. This might take longer on colder days, so don’t rush it. A good rise means a fluffier roll.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare with these delicious treats!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze. Just remember to reheat them gently in the oven before serving!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or even some orange zest to the cinnamon filling for a delightful twist. You can also mix in chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor!
Nutritional Information
These scrumptious *Christmas tree cinnamon rolls* are not only festive but also a treat you can enjoy guilt-free! Each roll is estimated to have about 180 calories, with 5g of fat and 3g of protein. Plus, you’ll find around 30g of carbohydrates and 10g of sugar per serving, making them a delightful indulgence for your holiday gatherings. Keep in mind that these values are based on typical ingredients, so they may vary slightly based on your choices. Enjoy these delicious rolls while keeping track of your nutritional goals—you deserve a little holiday magic!
FAQ Section
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! If you’re using instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the flour without needing to activate it first. Just keep an eye on your dough as it may rise a bit faster!
What’s the best way to store leftover rolls?
Keep any leftover *Christmas tree cinnamon rolls* in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape the rolls and place them in the fridge overnight. Just allow them to come to room temperature and rise again for about 30 minutes before baking.
What are some good substitutions?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar, but the flavor won’t be as rich. You can also substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure to use the same amount!
How do I freeze the rolls before baking?
After shaping the rolls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just take them out, let them thaw for about 30 minutes, and bake as directed!
Can I add nuts or dried fruit?
Definitely! Chopped nuts or dried fruit can be sprinkled on top of the brown sugar and cinnamon filling for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overstuff, so the rolls maintain their shape!
Serving Suggestions
These delightful *Christmas tree cinnamon rolls* are perfect on their own, but let’s take your holiday experience up a notch with some scrumptious pairings! I absolutely love serving them warm alongside a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot chocolate. The chocolatey goodness complements the sweet cinnamon rolls so perfectly—it’s like a cozy hug in a mug!
If you want to make it even more festive, consider whipping up a batch of spiced apple cider. The warm spices will echo the flavors in the rolls and create a comforting atmosphere that’s just right for the holidays. Want to add a little sparkle? A splash of bubbly sparkling cider or even a festive mimosa can elevate your brunch spread!
For those who enjoy a little fruitiness, a side of fresh, sliced strawberries or a fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, gooey rolls. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not serve them with a dollop of whipped cream cheese or a sweet cream cheese spread? It’s a delightful addition that just takes these rolls to a whole new level!
So, gather your loved ones, set the table with these delicious rolls and your favorite beverages, and enjoy the warmth of the season together. Trust me, these combinations will make your holiday brunch unforgettable!
Z nadrukami
Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls: 7 Festive Treats to Love
- Całkowity Czas: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Ustępować: 12 rolls 1x
- Dieta: Wegańskie
Opis
Delicious cinnamon rolls shaped like a Christmas tree.
Składniki
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 packet yeast
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup icing sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
Instrukcje
- Warm milk and butter until melted.
- Mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl.
- Add warm milk and egg to the dry ingredients.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes.
- Let it rise for 1 hour.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle.
- Spread brown sugar and cinnamon on the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly and cut into pieces.
- Shape the pieces into a Christmas tree on a baking sheet.
- Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Mix icing sugar with water and drizzle on top before serving.
Uwagi
- Use fresh yeast for best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Can be frozen before baking.
- Czas Przygotowania: 20 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 25 minutes
- Kategoria: Dessert
- Sposób: Baking
- Kuchnia: American
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 roll
- Kalorie: 180
- Cukier: 10g
- Sód: 150mg
- Kwasy: 5g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 3g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 2g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 30g
- Włókno: 1g
- Białko: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Słowa kluczowe: christmas tree cinnamon rolls
