Cinnamon Roll Wreath Cream Cheese (Print)

Fluffy cinnamon roll wreath glazed with cream cheese icing, ideal for festive mornings and gatherings.

# Components:

→ Dough

01 - 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
02 - ¼ cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
04 - ½ teaspoon salt
05 - ¾ cup whole milk, lukewarm
06 - ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
07 - 2 large eggs, room temperature

→ Filling

08 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 1 cup brown sugar, packed
10 - 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
11 - ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

→ Cream Cheese Icing

12 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
13 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
14 - 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
15 - 2–3 tablespoons milk
16 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
17 - Pinch salt

# Directions:

01 - Combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl or stand mixer.
02 - Add lukewarm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand or with a dough hook for 6 to 8 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
03 - Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, approximately 1 hour.
04 - On a floured surface, roll out the risen dough into a 16 by 12-inch rectangle.
05 - Evenly spread softened butter over the dough. Sprinkle with packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg if desired.
06 - Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log and pinch the seam to seal.
07 - With a sharp knife, slice the log in half lengthwise to reveal layers. Twist both halves together, keeping cut sides facing up.
08 - Shape the twisted dough into a wreath and pinch the ends together.
09 - Transfer the shaped wreath onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and allow to rise for 30 to 40 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F.
10 - Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes, until the wreath is golden brown and baked through. Let cool for 15 minutes before icing.
11 - Beat cream cheese and unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Blend in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until desired consistency is achieved.
12 - Drizzle or spread the cream cheese icing over the warm wreath. Present and serve warmed or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses familiar pantry staples which keeps things simple
  • Stunning centerpiece that tastes as good as it looks
  • Kids love unraveling their own piece and adults love a second slice just as much
  • You can make it ahead for easy holiday mornings
02 -
  • Vegetarian friendly perfect for most brunch crowds
  • This wreath tastes amazing warm but stays soft for two days if wrapped well
  • Freezes beautifully either baked or unbaked shape
  • The filling melts into every swirl so every bite is gooey and sweet
03 -
  • When rolling the dough use a ruler for even thickness
  • Let cinnamon rolls proof in a steam-filled oven for extra rise just set a mug of hot water on the rack below
  • Always use fresh yeast check the date for reliable rising
  • If your icing feels too stiff add milk just half a spoon at a time for perfect drizzling consistency