# Components:
→ Dough
01 - 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
04 - 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
05 - 3/4 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F)
06 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
07 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
→ Cinnamon Swirl Filling
08 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
09 - 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
10 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
→ Egg Wash
11 - 1 egg
12 - 1 tbsp milk
→ Icing (optional)
13 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
14 - 1–2 tbsp milk
15 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
# Method Steps:
01 - In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
02 - Add warm milk, melted butter, and eggs to dry ingredients; mix until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead dough by hand or with a dough hook for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
05 - In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
06 - Punch down risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 16 by 12-inch rectangle.
07 - Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border; sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
08 - Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape.
09 - Using a sharp knife, slice the log lengthwise in half, then twist the two halves together to reveal the swirl.
10 - Arrange the twisted dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet into a Christmas tree shape, tucking ends underneath.
11 - Cover loosely and allow to rise for 30 minutes; preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.
12 - Whisk together egg and milk; brush the mixture over the shaped dough.
13 - Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through.
14 - Let bread cool slightly. For icing, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla; drizzle over warm bread before serving.
