As the holiday season rolls around, we’ve fallen in love with our Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake recipe—it’s a festive twist on a classic treat that turns simple dough into a stunning, snowflake-shaped delight. This easy bake brings warm cinnamon flavors and gooey layers that’ll wow your guests at any gathering.
We created this recipe to add a touch of magic to your kitchen, blending the comfort of homemade cinnamon rolls with a pull-apart design that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something special, it’s the perfect way to spread holiday cheer.
Ingredients
In our Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake recipe, we gather simple, high-quality ingredients to create layers of warm, gooey cinnamon goodness that will delight your holiday gatherings. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, with prep notes for precise results.
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: Proof in warm water to ensure it activates quickly and evenly.
- 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F): Heat gently to help the yeast bloom without cooking it prematurely.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps feed the yeast for a soft, fluffy dough.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted: Use softened butter for easy incorporation and rich flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Beat lightly before adding to bind the dough together.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted for a smooth texture, added gradually to avoid lumps.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Mix in to balance flavors and strengthen the dough structure.
Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Combined with cinnamon for the signature caramelized layers.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses warm, aromatic notes throughout.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Spread evenly over the dough to create gooey pockets.
Topping and Finishing Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For a simple glaze; sift to avoid clumps and achieve a smooth finish.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk: Added to the powdered sugar for drizzling, adjusting thickness as needed.
This selection ensures our Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake comes together effortlessly, delivering that festive, pull-apart magic with every bite.
Equipment Needed
With our ingredients prepared, we’re excited to gather the essential tools that make crafting the Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake a seamless and enjoyable process. These items ensure precise measurements, even dough handling, and perfect baking for that flaky, cinnamon-infused delight.
To help you organize, we’ve compiled a list of key equipment below. We recommend using high-quality tools for the best results, as they contribute to the recipe’s texture and presentation.
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized mixing bowls—one for combining dry ingredients and another for wet ones—to keep our dough preparation organized and mess-free.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of standard measuring cups (1 cup, ½ cup, ⅓ cup, ¼ cup) and spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon) for accurate measurements of ingredients like flour, sugar, and milk, ensuring consistent results every time.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: A stand mixer with a dough hook attachment (or a sturdy hand mixer) to knead the dough efficiently, creating that soft and fluffy base we love in our cinnamon rolls.
- Rolling Pin: A 12-inch wooden or silicone rolling pin to roll out the dough evenly into a thin sheet, which is crucial for achieving the signature pull-apart layers.
- Baking Sheet or Round Pan: A large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper, or a 9-inch round cake pan, to shape and bake the snowflake design without sticking or uneven cooking.
- Pizza Cutter or Sharp Knife: A pizza cutter for precise slicing of the dough into snowflake points, allowing for that visually stunning, festive pull-apart effect.
- Pastry Brush: A soft-bristled pastry brush to evenly apply melted butter or glaze, enhancing the gooey, cinnamon-kissed exterior.
- Oven Thermometer: An oven thermometer to verify accurate baking temperatures, as maintaining 350°F is vital for the perfect golden-brown finish without over-baking.
By having these tools ready, we can transition smoothly from mixing ingredients to shaping and baking our masterpiece.
Instructions
With our ingredients measured and tools ready, we guide you through crafting the irresistible Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake step by step. Let’s bring the warm cinnamon flavors and gooey layers to life for a festive treat that delights every gathering.
Prepare the Dough
First, we activate the yeast to ensure a light fluffy base. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast with 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F) and ¼ cup granulated sugar; stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Next, add ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon salt to the yeast mixture; whisk until smooth. Gradually incorporate 4 cups all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic, developing that perfect texture for pulling apart. Pro tip: If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead on medium speed for 5 minutes.
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size. As it rises, you’ll notice the aromatic yeast scent filling the kitchen, promising a tender crumb in our Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake.
Shape the Snowflake
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle, aiming for an even thickness of about ¼ inch.
Spread a mixture of ½ cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border; this creates the gooey cinnamon-filled layers that define our Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake.
Using a pizza cutter, slice the circle into 16 equal triangles. To form the snowflake, arrange 8 triangles in a circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet, points outward, then layer the remaining triangles on top, offsetting them slightly and twisting the points for a star-like intricate design. Let it rest for 15 minutes to puff up slightly, enhancing the pull-apart magic.
Bake and Cool
Preheat your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the center for even baking. Bake the shaped snowflake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and the irresistible cinnamon aroma wafts through your kitchen; check at 20 minutes to avoid over-browning.
Remove from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for 10-15 minutes. While still warm, drizzle with a simple glaze made from 1 cup powdered sugar whisked with 2-3 tablespoons milk until smooth, adding a sweet glossy finish that makes each pull irresistible.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve joined us on this festive baking adventure with our Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake. It’s more than a treat—it’s a way to spark joy and create lasting memories during the holidays.
As you pull apart those warm, cinnamon-kissed layers, you’ll see why this recipe’s a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and make it your own signature delight—we know it’ll shine at your next gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake?
A Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake is a festive holiday treat that combines soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls into a stunning snowflake shape. It’s perfect for gatherings, offering warm cinnamon flavors and gooey layers that pull apart easily, adding magic to your holiday table.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You’ll need basic dough ingredients like active dry yeast, warm milk, sugar, butter, eggs, flour, and salt. For the filling, use brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Top it off with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. This selection ensures a delicious, easy-to-make treat.
What equipment is required to make Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a stand or hand mixer, rolling pin, baking sheet or round pan, pizza cutter, pastry brush, and an oven thermometer. These help create the recipe smoothly for the best results.
How do I prepare the dough for this recipe?
Start by activating the yeast in warm milk, then mix with sugar, melted butter, eggs, flour, and salt. Knead until soft and elastic, let it rise, then roll out and fill with cinnamon-sugar mixture. Shape into a snowflake before baking for that festive look.
How long does it take to bake Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake?
The total time is about 2-3 hours, including prep and rising. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Allow time for cooling and glazing to ensure it’s perfect for serving at your holiday event.
Can I customize the Cinnamon Roll Pull Apart Snowflake recipe?
Yes, you can add nuts or dried fruits to the filling for extra texture, or experiment with flavored glazes like vanilla or cream cheese. Keep the core ingredients intact for the best results, and adjust based on your preferences for a personalized twist.
How should I store leftovers of this treat?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep them fresh. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore that warm, gooey goodness before enjoying.