Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls

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Introduction

Let’s be honest—Christmas morning is magical, and while the gifts are exciting, the smell of warm cinnamon rolls baking in the oven just makes the day. These Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls are a festive twist on a classic favorite. Picture soft, gooey cinnamon rolls, topped with sweet cream cheese frosting, arranged perfectly to resemble a cheerful Christmas tree. It’s the kind of recipe that looks impressive but is actually easy enough for any home baker to pull off.

I discovered this idea a few years ago when I was trying to jazz up our Christmas brunch. I wanted something quick and fun, but still delicious. After one bite of these soft, cinnamon-swirled rolls, my family was hooked! Now, it’s a holiday tradition I look forward to every year. I mean, who doesn’t love waking up to cinnamon-sugar goodness shaped like a festive tree?

These rolls are perfect for busy Christmas mornings because you can prep them the night before, and they only take about 20 minutes to bake. Plus, the decorating possibilities are endless—sprinkles, edible stars, and little “ornaments” (aka M&Ms or berries) can turn this tree into a true showstopper.

So, grab your rolling pin, crank up the Christmas music, and let’s make a holiday breakfast everyone will remember!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Festive and Fun: Shaping the cinnamon rolls into a Christmas tree makes this the ultimate holiday breakfast centerpiece. Kids and adults alike will love it!
  • Easy to Make: Don’t stress—this recipe uses simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You can even use store-bought dough for a shortcut.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s brunch with your family or a holiday potluck, this cinnamon roll tree is always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Deliciously Soft and Gooey: Fluffy rolls, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting—what’s not to love?
  • Customizable: Add sprinkles, powdered sugar “snow,” or festive candies for decorations. You can even drizzle caramel or chocolate on top for extra flair.

These cinnamon rolls truly taste like a warm, sugary hug, and they look almost too pretty to eat… almost.

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes proofing time)
  • Active Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Bake Time: 20-22 minutes
  • Servings: 12 rolls

Nutrition Information: Approximately 250 calories per roll, with 8g fat, 37g carbs, and 4g protein.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 to 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Filling:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decorating:

  • Green and red sprinkles, powdered sugar, M&Ms, or berries for ornaments
  • Optional: Edible gold star for the top

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and active.
    • Tip: If the yeast doesn’t bubble, your milk might’ve been too hot or too cold. Start again with fresh yeast.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and salt. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook or mix by hand.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If it feels sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
  4. Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
    • Pro Tip: A warm oven (turned off!) with the light on is a perfect proofing spot.

2. Make the Cinnamon Filling

  1. While the dough rises, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth. This is your gooey, sugary magic!

3. Shape the Rolls

  1. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
  2. Spread the filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the dough using a spatula or your fingers.
  3. Roll it up: Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut it into 12 even rolls.
  4. Arrange into a Christmas tree:
    • On a parchment-lined baking sheet, start placing the rolls in a triangle (tree) shape. Place 1 roll at the top, then 2 in the next row, then 3, and so on, finishing with 4 rolls at the base. Use 2 rolls at the very bottom as the “tree trunk.”
    • Leave about ½ inch between each roll for them to expand as they bake.
  5. Second rise: Cover the tree-shaped rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes until puffy.

4. Bake the Roll

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake the rolls for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown and the centers are cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking—soft, gooey centers are key!

5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If you prefer thinner frosting, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Decorate the Tree

  1. Once the rolls are slightly cooled (but still warm), drizzle or spread the cream cheese frosting over the “tree.”
  2. Add festive decorations: sprinkle green and red sprinkles for “ornaments,” place red M&Ms as baubles, and dust powdered sugar on top for a snowy look. Finish with an edible gold star at the top.

How to Serve

  • For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve these cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven with hot chocolate, coffee, or spiced apple cider.
  • For a Holiday Spread: Pair them with scrambled eggs, sausage links, or a fresh fruit platter to balance the sweetness.
  • Make it Extra Special: Add a small bowl of warm caramel sauce or chocolate drizzle for dipping!

This tree-shaped treat is perfect for pulling apart and sharing—no knives needed!

Additional Tips

  1. Prep Ahead: You can assemble the rolls the night before, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
  2. Don’t Overbake: Keep the rolls soft and tender by baking until just golden. Check at the 20-minute mark.
  3. Decorating Fun: Let kids join in on the decorating! Set up toppings like sprinkles, candies, or fruit so they can create their masterpiece.
  4. Frosting Hack: Spread the frosting while the rolls are still slightly warm so it melts beautifully into every swirl.
  5. Shortcut: If you’re short on time, use store-bought cinnamon roll dough and focus on shaping and decorating.

Recipe Variations

  • Mini Trees: Create smaller, individual Christmas tree shapes by using 3-5 rolls per tree—perfect for gifting!
  • Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Add a layer of mini chocolate chips to the filling for a gooey chocolate surprise.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free dough to accommodate dietary needs.
  • Caramel Pecan Topping: Drizzle caramel sauce and sprinkle chopped pecans on top for a decadent twist.
  • Fruit-Filled Rolls: Spread a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam under the cinnamon filling for a fruity burst of flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Keep leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
  • Freezing: You can freeze baked, unfrosted rolls. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes before frosting.

Special Equipment

  • Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly.
  • Sharp Knife or Floss: For clean, even cuts of the dough.
  • Parchment Paper: Makes arranging and baking easier with less mess.
  • Star Cookie Cutter: For making edible stars from fruit or fondant to top the tree.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought cinnamon roll dough?
Yes! Store-bought dough makes this recipe incredibly quick and easy. Just shape, bake, and decorate.

Can I make this recipe without cream cheese frosting?
Absolutely! Try a simple vanilla glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract.

What if I don’t have an edible star?
Get creative! Use a small piece of pineapple, a candy star, or even a sprinkle cluster to top your tree.

Can I freeze the rolls before baking?
Yes! Freeze the rolls right after shaping. Thaw overnight in the fridge, let them rise, and bake as instructed.

Conclusion

These Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to bring holiday cheer to your breakfast table. They’re fun to make, incredibly delicious, and almost too cute to eat! Whether you’re sharing them with family on Christmas morning or serving them at a holiday brunch, they’ll be an instant favorite.

I’d love to see your festive cinnamon roll trees! Snap a picture and tag me on Instagram or share your thoughts in the comments below. Wishing you and your loved ones a cozy, cinnamon-swirled holiday season

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