# What You'll Need:
→ Dough
01 - 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
06 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
07 - 2 large eggs at 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 large 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
# How To Make It:
01 - In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, blend the flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and sea salt.
02 - Add warm whole milk, melted butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients; mix until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead by hand or with a dough hook for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
05 - In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
06 - Punch down risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a 16 by 12 inch rectangle.
07 - Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
08 - Roll the dough tightly from one long side into a log shape.
09 - Using a sharp knife, cut the log lengthwise in half, then twist the two halves together to expose the swirl layers.
10 - Arrange the twisted dough into a Christmas tree shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet, tucking the ends underneath.
11 - Cover loosely and let it rise for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
12 - Whisk together egg and milk; brush lightly over the surface of the dough.
13 - Bake for 25 to 28 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
14 - Let bread cool slightly. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for icing and drizzle over the warm bread if desired.
