# Components:
→ Dough
01 - 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
06 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
07 - 2 large eggs at room temperature
→ Cinnamon Swirl Filling
08 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
09 - 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
10 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
→ Egg Wash
11 - 1 large egg
12 - 1 tablespoon milk
→ Icing (optional)
13 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
14 - 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
15 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
# Directions:
01 - In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
02 - Add warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs to the dry mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead by hand or with a dough hook for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
05 - In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
06 - Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a 16 by 12-inch rectangle.
07 - Evenly spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
08 - Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
09 - Using a sharp knife, cut the log lengthwise in half. Twist the two halves together, exposing the cinnamon swirls.
10 - Arrange the twisted dough into a Christmas tree shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet, starting with a wide base narrowing to the top point. Tuck the ends underneath.
11 - Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
12 - Whisk together one egg and one tablespoon milk, then brush this mixture over the surface of the dough.
13 - Bake for 25 to 28 minutes until the bread is golden brown and fully cooked through.
14 - While the bread cools slightly, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to form icing. Drizzle over warm bread before serving.
