# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ 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 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 tablespoons ground cinnamon
10 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
→ Egg Wash
11 - 1 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
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, blend flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt until evenly combined.
02 - Add warm whole milk, melted butter, and eggs; mix until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead by hand or dough hook for 6 to 8 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and allow to rise at room temperature until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
05 - In a small bowl, combine packed brown sugar with ground cinnamon.
06 - Punch down the risen dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a 16 by 12-inch rectangle.
07 - Evenly spread softened butter over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered surface.
08 - Starting from a long side, roll dough tightly into a log shape.
09 - Using a sharp knife, slice the dough log lengthwise into two halves. Twist the halves together, exposing the cinnamon swirl.
10 - Arrange the twisted dough into a Christmas tree shape on parchment-lined baking sheet, creating a wide base tapering to a point. Tuck ends underneath.
11 - Cover loosely and let the shaped dough rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.
12 - Whisk together egg and milk for egg wash; brush evenly over the dough surface.
13 - Bake for 25 to 28 minutes until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
14 - Allow bread to cool slightly. For the optional icing, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract; drizzle over warm bread before serving.
