# 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 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
# Preparation steps:
01 - Combine flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and sea salt in the bowl of a stand mixer or large mixing bowl.
02 - Add warm milk, melted butter, and eggs to dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead 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 rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
05 - In a small bowl, mix packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
06 - Punch down dough and roll out on a lightly floured surface into a 16x12 inch rectangle.
07 - Spread softened butter evenly over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border, then sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
08 - Starting from a long side, roll dough tightly into a log.
09 - Cut log lengthwise in half using a sharp knife, then twist the two halves together with the swirls exposed.
10 - Form the twisted dough into a Christmas tree shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet, tucking ends underneath.
11 - Cover loosely and allow to rise for 30 minutes; preheat oven to 350°F during this time.
12 - Whisk together egg and milk, then brush evenly over the shaped dough.
13 - Bake for 25 to 28 minutes until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
14 - Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract; drizzle over warm bread before serving.
