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Golden sourdough cinnamon rolls shaped like a Christmas tree dusted with sugar and holiday sparkle.

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

Scale
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup active sourdough discard
  • 3/4 cup whole milk, lukewarm
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp instant yeast (optional)
  • 4 tbsp softened unsalted butter for filling
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
  • powdered sugar for glaze
  • 12 tbsp milk or cream
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

  • 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