Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls

Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a stunning snowflake shape. These sweet rolls are perfect for special occasions, holidays, or just when you want to impress family and friends with a homemade dessert. The fluffy dough, rich filling, and beautiful presentation make these rolls a standout choice.

Why You’ll Love This Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls

Imagine biting into a warm, soft roll bursting with a sweet cinnamon filling. The beautiful snowflake shape adds a festive touch, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for your table. Not only are these sweet rolls delicious, but they are also fun to make. Whether you are an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results.

How to Make Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 to 3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl or stand mixer; let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
Add melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture; mix thoroughly.
Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms; knead for 8 to 10 minutes by hand or with a dough hook until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a separate bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until combined.
Punch down the dough, turn it onto a floured surface, and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 12-inch circle.
Place one dough circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet; spread one-third of the filling evenly over it. Repeat the layers, finishing with the top dough circle.
Place a 3-inch round cutter in the center without cutting through. Slice the dough into 16 equal strips radiating from the center using a sharp knife.
Twist two adjacent strips away from each other twice and pinch the ends together. Repeat with all pairs to form the snowflake shape.
Cover loosely; let rise for 30 to 40 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 350°F.
Bake the snowflake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown. Cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack.
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth; drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

How to Serve Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls

When serving Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls, consider presenting them as a centerpiece on a large platter. You can sprinkle some additional powdered sugar on top for a snowy effect, making them even more visually appealing. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert. Accompany them with a warm beverage like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for an extra cozy experience.

How to Store Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls

To store any leftover Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for a more extended period, you can also freeze them. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven until they are heated through.

Tips to Make Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls Perfect

Ensure Yeast Activation: Make sure your milk is the right temperature (around 110°F) when activating the yeast. Too hot can kill the yeast, and too cold will prevent it from activating.
Knead Thoroughly: Don’t skip the kneading step. Proper kneading develops the gluten, giving your rolls the right texture.
Watch the Rise: The dough needs to double in size during the first rise. If your kitchen is cool, it may take longer; be patient!
Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts, dried fruits, or even different spices to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

Flavor Variations

While the classic cinnamon filling is a favorite, you can easily switch things up. Here are a few ideas:

Chocolate Hazelnut: Replace the cinnamon filling with chocolate hazelnut spread and optional chopped hazelnuts for a delightful twist.
Apple-Cinnamon: Add finely chopped apples to the cinnamon filling for a fruity variation.
Lemon Cream Cheese: Mix softened cream cheese with lemon zest and powdered sugar for a refreshing filling.

Pro Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps with even mixing and better rise.
Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes transferring the rolls easier and helps with cleanup.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the rolls while baking. They are done when they are golden brown but still soft to the touch.

FAQs About Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a portion of all-purpose flour. Start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a healthier option. Keep in mind that it may affect the texture slightly, making it denser.

How can I make the rolls dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter replacement. Your rolls will still turn out delicious without the dairy!

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature, then twist and shape as directed before the final rise and baking.

Final Thoughts

Giant Snowflake Sweet Rolls are not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. This recipe is perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful addition to your breakfast table. With a little effort and love, you can create a beautiful and delicious masterpiece that will impress everyone. So gather your ingredients and get ready to make these delightful sweet rolls that everyone will love!