Save 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 my family, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere whenever served.
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°F43°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 Serving this centerpiece has led to cherished family moments filled with warmth and laughter over the holiday season.
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 Enjoy this festive treat warm for the best flavor and texture.
Common Questions
- → What type of flour is best for the dough?
All-purpose flour creates a soft and tender dough, perfect for these sweet rolls' pillowy texture.
- → How can I ensure the dough rises properly?
Use warm milk (about 110°F/43°C) and let the yeast mixture foam for 5–10 minutes before mixing to activate the yeast fully.
- → Can I add flavors to the filling?
Yes, adding orange zest, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries enhances the flavor and adds a festive twist.
- → How do I achieve the snowflake shape?
Stack four rolled dough circles with filling between layers, cut into strips from the center, then twist pairs twice and pinch ends to form the snowflake pattern.
- → What is the best way to apply the icing?
Whisk powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract, then drizzle the glaze over warm rolls just before serving for a light, sweet finish.