There’s something magical about the scent of cinnamon rolls mingling with twinkling lights and laughter on a winter morning. This Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree captures that holiday wonder in every golden swirl. It’s a festive twist on a bakery classic—combining the tangy richness of sourdough discard with the warmth of spice and butter. Whether shared at Christmas brunch or gifted straight from the oven, this bake turns simple ingredients into edible joy. In this guide, we’ll explore its story, the ingredient list, easy steps, and expert tips—perfect for anyone who loves Sourdough Discard Recipes Christmas or a cozy Snowflake Bread Recipe tradition.
A Sweet Holiday Memory Baked into Every Roll
The Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree began as a small baking experiment one snowy Christmas Eve. The kitchen glowed with the soft hue of fairy lights reflecting off mixing bowls, and every surface was dusted in a fine layer of flour and sugar. As the smell of cinnamon and brown sugar filled the air, the laughter of family echoed around the room. Each roll was shaped by hand, layered with love, and carefully arranged into the shape of a Christmas tree—a symbol of togetherness that made our morning feast unforgettable.
Over the years, those soft, buttery spirals became more than just a breakfast treat; they became a part of our holiday rhythm. The gentle tang of sourdough gave the rolls depth, while the familiar swirl of spice captured everything we love about Christmas mornings. Preparing this Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree became a cherished ritual—kneading dough while holiday music hummed in the background, and gathering everyone to decorate the baked tree with a drizzle of glaze and a sprinkle of sugar “snow.”
Now, every December, I pull out the same worn mixing bowl to recreate that moment. It’s not just about baking—it’s about preserving the magic of shared memories. The Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree isn’t merely a recipe; it’s a story baked into each layer, a delicious reminder of family, warmth, and the comforts of home.
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Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 1 tree 1x
Description
This festive sourdough cinnamon roll Christmas tree transforms everyday sourdough discard into a soft, buttery centerpiece. Layers of tangy sourdough dough are rolled with cinnamon, brown sugar, and nutmeg, then arranged into a tree shape. After a slow bulk fermentation or overnight proof, the tree bakes until golden, then is drizzled with vanilla glaze and decorated with cranberry “ornaments.” It’s an easy yet impressive holiday bake that reduces waste and delivers warm, spiced aroma—perfect for brunch or gift baskets. Enjoy the cozy tradition of shaping, baking, and sharing this delicious seasonal treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Stir sourdough discard, milk, melted butter, egg, sugar, and salt until combined
2. Add flour and optional yeast, mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms
3. Knead dough 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic
4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and allow to rise 3–5 hours or refrigerate overnight
5. Roll dough into a 1/4 inch thick rectangle on a floured surface
6. Spread softened butter over dough, sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg
7. Roll dough tightly from the long edge into a log
8. Slice into 1 inch rolls or cut strips to shape a tree on parchment-lined baking sheet
9. Cover and proof 45–60 minutes until puffed
10. Preheat oven to 350°F and bake 20–25 minutes until golden
11. Cool 10 minutes, whisk glaze ingredients until smooth
12. Drizzle glaze over tree and decorate with cranberries or sugar pearls
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: bread
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
Keywords: sourdough cinnamon rolls, sourdough discard recipes christmas, snowflake bread recipe, christmas sourdough, holiday baking, festive bread, cinnamon roll tree, sourdough discard brunch recipes, christmas sourdough discard recipes
The Heart of a Cozy Holiday Discard Recipe
There’s something deeply satisfying about transforming sourdough discard—a byproduct many toss away—into something truly special. Around the holidays, it feels even more meaningful. This Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree is one of those comforting Sourdough Discard Christmas Recipes that turn simplicity into luxury. It embodies the heart of sustainable holiday baking: reducing waste while crafting something beautiful, golden, and inviting.
Every element feels generous and intentional—the sourdough discard lends a soft tang that balances the sweetness, creating rolls that stay tender for days. As they bake, the aroma of cinnamon and butter fills the house, mingling with pine needles and candle wax, wrapping everyone in warmth.
For those who love giving homemade treats, these rolls are a perfect addition to Christmas brunch baskets or morning coffee spreads. Tie them with a simple ribbon, or bake them in festive shapes—each one carries a hint of love and nostalgia. Among Sourdough Discard Brunch Recipes, this tree-shaped delight stands out as both centerpiece and comfort food, merging creativity with tradition.
More than a recipe, it’s an invitation to slow down and savor the season—to find joy in the stretch of dough beneath your hands and gratitude in every sweet, cinnamon-filled bite. This is what makes the Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree the heart of a cozy, homemade holiday celebration.
Ingredients for Soft, Golden Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
The secret to a perfect Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree lies in quality ingredients and the slow, tender artistry of natural fermentation. The sourdough discard brings subtle tang and a softness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon’s warmth and brown sugar’s caramel notes. Below is a clear breakdown of what you’ll need to bring this festive bake to life.
| Dough Ingredients | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ cups (approx. 440g) | Provides structure and a tender crumb |
| Active sourdough discard (unfed, 100% hydration) | 1 cup (about 240g) | Adds flavor and natural fermentation |
| Whole milk (lukewarm) | ¾ cup (180ml) | Aids softness and prevents dryness |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 4 tbsp (56g) | Adds richness and enhances flavor |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup (50g) | Balances tang with gentle sweetness |
| Egg | 1 large | For binding and lightness |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Deepens overall flavor |
| Instant yeast (optional for faster rise) | 1 tsp | Useful if baking same-day |
| Filling Ingredients | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Softened unsalted butter | 4 tbsp (56g) | Easy to spread and holds spices |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup (100g) | Creates a caramel-like filling |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 ½ tbsp | The heart of festive aroma |
| Ground nutmeg (optional) | ½ tsp | Adds warmth and depth |
| Pinch of salt | — | Balances sweetness perfectly |
| Glaze (Optional) | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup (120g) | Sweet finishing touch |
| Milk or cream | 1–2 tbsp | Adjust consistency as desired |
| Vanilla extract | ½ tsp | For classic bakery flavor |
As the rolls rise, the sourdough discard does its magic—creating a slightly tangy flavor that complements the buttery sweetness. The filling transforms into a rich ribbon of spice, while the glaze gives your tree a snowy shimmer reminiscent of a Snowflake Bread Recipe.
When choosing ingredients, aim for room temperature butter and milk for smooth blending. Fresh spices make a noticeable difference; that little extra depth of cinnamon and nutmeg boosts your Sourdough Discard Recipes Christmas bake to bakery-worthy perfection.
Tools You’ll Need to Shape a Christmas Tree
Just like ornaments bring a tree to life, the right tools bring ease and joy to your baking experience. Fortunately, you don’t need anything fancy to make your Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree look impressive—just a few reliable essentials that help shape, bake, and display your creation.
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment: Ideal for smooth kneading and even dough consistency.
- Large mixing bowl: For mixing and first proofing the dough.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even rectangle before spreading the cinnamon filling.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes transferring shapes easy.
- Baking sheet or large pizza pan: The base for assembling the tree.
- Pastry brush: For applying butter, milk wash, or glaze.
- Sharp knife or bench scraper: To cut dough into even strips or triangles.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy matters for proportions.
- Spatula: For spreading butter and sugar mixture smoothly.
Tips for Assembling & Shaping:
- Plan your layout before baking—picture how your tree will look.
- Assemble directly on parchment paper for easy transfer.
- Leave gaps between rolls for even proofing and rise.
- Shape a small dough star for the top or dust powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- Try a Snowflake Bread Recipe design by snipping and twisting dough edges outward.
As your Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree takes shape, you’ll see not just a centerpiece but a memory forming—smelling of butter, spice, and pure holiday joy.
Mixing, Rising, and Shaping Your Festive Tree
Step 1: Preparing Your Starter or Discard
Use room-temperature sourdough discard. Stir it well to evenly distribute natural yeast. Refreshing it a few hours ahead creates mild tang and better fermentation.
Step 2: Mixing the Dough
Combine discard, warm milk, melted butter, egg, sugar, and salt. Add flour gradually, mixing until a soft, smooth dough forms. Add the optional yeast if baking same-day.
Step 3: Kneading for Texture
Knead 6–8 minutes until the dough is elastic and smooth. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
Step 4: The First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
Let dough rise at room temperature for 3–5 hours or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor and soft texture.
Step 5: Rolling Out & Adding the Filling
Roll dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, and sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly. Press lightly so the filling adheres.
Step 6: Shaping the Tree
Roll into a log and slice rounds for spirals or cut strips for branches. Arrange rolls into a Christmas tree outline on parchment.
Step 7: The Final Proof
Let the shaped dough rest 45–60 minutes. When gently pressed, it should spring back slowly—then it’s ready to bake.
Baking, Glazing, and Decorating for a Holiday Touch
Step 1: Preheat and Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until lightly golden. Adjust baking time if rolls are larger.
Step 2: Check for Doneness
Rolls are done when springy to the touch and a toothpick emerges clean. Avoid overbaking for the softest crumb.
Step 3: Cooling Slightly Before Glazing
Rest 10–15 minutes post-bake before glazing. Serve warm or room temperature.
Step 4: Preparing and Applying the Glaze
Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the tree, zigzag-style, for a garland look. Add powdered sugar for snow.
Step 5: Decorating Your Festive Tree
Finish with a star-shaped top and colorful touches—cranberries, rosemary, or chocolate balls as ornaments. A Snowflake Bread Recipe snipped design creates an elegant effect.
- Use room-temperature ingredients for even fermentation.
- Avoid overproofing to maintain height and softness.
- Add steam during baking for a tender crumb.
- Warm before serving to revive just-baked texture.
By the time you glaze and decorate, your Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree will shine as your golden holiday centerpiece—warm, soft, and full of joy.
Common Questions About Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree
1. How can I use sourdough discard effectively?
Use room-temperature discard that’s not overly sour. It adds mild tang and moisture, enhancing the soft crumb and sustainable feel of Christmas Sourdough Discard Recipes.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—prepare the dough the day before. After the first rise, refrigerate overnight. Next morning, shape, proof for an hour, and bake fresh.
3. What’s the best way to store or gift these rolls?
Keep in an airtight container 2 days at room temp or 5 days refrigerated. To gift, wrap the cooled Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree in parchment and tie with ribbon. Include a note to rewarm for 5 minutes before serving—a lovely Sourdough Discard Brunch Recipe gift.
4. Can I freeze the baked rolls or dough?
Yes. Freeze unbaked shapes up to a month or baked rolls up to three months. Thaw and bake or rewarm gently before glazing.
5. How do I achieve soft, fluffy rolls every time?
Balance hydration, knead gently, don’t overproof, and bake just until set. Steam in the oven preserves moisture and softness—perfect for your Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree.
A Christmas Tradition Worth Sharing
There’s a special charm to baking something that fills your home with the scent of cinnamon, butter, and freshly baked dough. The Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree isn’t just a treat—it’s a shared moment of joy and nostalgia. Whether for brunch or as gifts, it’s a sweet celebration of cozy connection.
Among beloved Sourdough Discard Recipes Christmas, this golden tree stands out. Tangy, soft rolls topped with glaze shimmer like snow, bringing the elegance of a Snowflake Bread Recipe to your table.
As lights twinkle and laughter fills your kitchen, savor the process. Bake with heart, share with love, and let each swirl remind you that the simplest homemade creations make the brightest holiday memories—one golden roll at a time.
