Save to Pinterest A stunning, pull-apart centerpiece featuring soft, pillowy sweet rolls shaped into a beautiful snowflake, perfect for holiday breakfasts or festive gatherings.
This recipe has become a holiday favorite in our family, bringing everyone together over warm, sweet rolls and shared smiles.
Ingredients
- Dough: 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour, 1 packet (2 1 4 tsp / 7 g) active dry yeast, 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk warm (about 110°F/43°C), 1/3 cup (70 g) granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter melted, 2 large eggs room temperature, 1 tsp salt
- Filling: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar packed, 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Icing: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar, 2 3 tbsp milk, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 10 minutes until foamy.
- Step 2:
- Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix well.
- Step 3:
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8 10 minutes by hand or with a dough hook until smooth and elastic.
- Step 4:
- Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Step 5:
- Meanwhile, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl for the filling.
- Step 6:
- Punch down dough, turn onto a lightly floured surface, and divide into 4 equal pieces.
- Step 7:
- Roll each piece into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle. Place one circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread with 1/3 of the filling. Repeat layers, ending with the final dough circle on top.
- Step 8:
- Place a 3-inch (7.5 cm) round cutter or glass in the center (do not cut through). Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 16 equal strips radiating from the center (like sun rays), leaving the center intact.
- Step 9:
- Take two adjacent strips, twist them away from each other twice, then pinch the ends together. Repeat with all pairs to form the snowflake shape.
- Step 10:
- Cover loosely and let rise 30 40 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 11:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes, until golden brown. Cool for 10 minutes.
- Step 12:
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for icing. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Save to Pinterest Sharing these sweet rolls with my family creates cherished holiday memories filled with warmth and joy.
Required Tools
Stand mixer or large mixing bowl, rolling pin, sharp knife, baking sheet, parchment paper
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, eggs, and butter (dairy). Always check labels to ensure ingredients are safe for your dietary needs.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 10 servings): Calories 390, Total Fat 15 g, Carbohydrates 58 g, Protein 7 g
Save to Pinterest This sweet roll centerpiece is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious treat that brings the holiday spirit to your table.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I shape the rolls into a snowflake?
Layer four dough circles with spiced filling, cut into strips from the center, then twist pairs of strips away from each other and pinch ends together to form the snowflake.
- → Can I add more spices to the filling?
Yes, adding orange zest, nutmeg, or other warm spices enhances the flavor and adds a festive touch to the filling.
- → What’s the best way to ensure dough rises properly?
Keep the dough covered in a warm spot for about an hour or until it doubles in size for the first rise and an additional 30-40 minutes after shaping.
- → How do I get the icing consistency right?
Whisk powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth and pourable but not too runny for a perfect drizzle.
- → Can these sweet rolls be made ahead?
Yes, shape and allow to rise, then refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature before baking for fresh results.