Cinnamon Bun Wreath | A Delicious Treat

The cinnamon bun wreath is a show-stopping, mouth-watering pastry that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and dough into a beautiful wreath shape. Ideal for holidays, brunches, or special gatherings, this twist on the traditional cinnamon bun adds a visual appeal that makes it the centerpiece of any table. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the world of homemade pastries, crafting a cinnamon bun wreath is a rewarding experience that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of cinnamon buns, the magic of a cinnamon bun wreath, the step-by-step process to make it, and some helpful tips and variations to ensure your wreath turns out perfectly every time.

A Brief History of Cinnamon Buns

Cinnamon buns have been enjoyed for centuries, with origins traced back to Northern Europe. The classic Scandinavian “kanelbulle” is thought to be the predecessor of the modern cinnamon bun. Traditionally served with coffee, these sweet rolls became popular in many countries over time. In the United States, the cinnamon bun gained its foothold in bakeries during the mid-20th century, often paired with a sweet glaze or cream cheese frosting.

Over the years, bakers have experimented with the basic cinnamon bun recipe, creating variations like sticky buns, caramel rolls, and, more recently, the cinnamon bun wreath.

What Is a Cinnamon Bun Wreath?

A cinnamon bun wreath is essentially a creative reimagining of the traditional cinnamon roll. Instead of baking individual buns, the dough is shaped into a braided or twisted circular form, resembling a festive wreath. This transformation turns a simple pastry into an impressive, sharable treat. The twisting and shaping of the dough also allow for more even distribution of the cinnamon-sugar filling and a delightful texture in every bite.

Its elegant shape makes it perfect for holiday gatherings, morning brunches, or any special occasion. Whether dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with icing, or left plain to showcase its beauty, a cinnamon bun wreath never fails to impress.

Why You Should Make a Cinnamon Bun Wreath

• Visual Appeal: The wreath shape adds a beautiful, rustic charm to the table. It looks far more intricate than it actually is, making you look like a professional baker.
• Perfect for Sharing: Unlike individual cinnamon rolls, which are portioned, a cinnamon bun wreath is designed for sharing. Guests can pull apart pieces easily, making it great for casual gatherings.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily customize the cinnamon bun wreath to fit your flavor preferences. Add different spices, nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips to make it your own.
• Aromatic Delight: The scent of cinnamon and sugar baking in the oven is hard to beat, filling your home with a warm and inviting fragrance.

Ingredients for a Cinnamon Bun Wreath

Here’s what you’ll need to make a cinnamon bun wreath:

For the Dough:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (or one packet)
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup butter
• 1 large egg

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making a Cinnamon Bun Wreath

Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter until the butter is just melted. Allow the mixture to cool to lukewarm before adding it to the dry ingredients. Mix well, then add the egg and continue mixing until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead on medium speed for 4–5 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, approximately 12 x 16 inches.

Add the Filling

Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it generously over the buttered dough. If desired, add chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Roll and Cut the Dough

Starting from the long side of the rectangle, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal the roll. Using a sharp knife, cut the log in half lengthwise, exposing the cinnamon-sugar layers.

Shape the Wreath

With the cut sides facing up, carefully twist the two dough halves together, keeping the filling exposed. Form the twisted dough into a circle or wreath shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pinch the ends together to seal the wreath.

Let the Wreath Rise Again

Cover the wreath with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until slightly puffed.

Bake the Wreath

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon bun wreath for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on the wreath toward the end of the baking time to avoid over-browning.

Glaze and Serve

While the wreath is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm wreath before serving. Alternatively, dust the wreath with powdered sugar or leave it plain for a rustic look.

Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Bun Wreath

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth dough, make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before starting the dough.
• Don’t Rush the Rise: Be patient and allow the dough to rise properly. This ensures a light, fluffy texture.
• Twisting Tip: When twisting the dough halves, try to keep the cut layers facing up to highlight the cinnamon-sugar filling.
• Icing Option: For a more indulgent touch, consider making a cream cheese glaze by blending 4 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Flavor Variations

• Chocolate Chip Wreath: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
• Apple Cinnamon Wreath: Sprinkle finely chopped apples over the cinnamon-sugar filling for a fruity variation.
• Nutella Wreath: Spread Nutella instead of butter for a rich, hazelnut flavor.
• Orange Glaze: Add a citrusy flair by substituting orange juice for milk in the glaze and adding a bit of orange zest.

Serving Suggestions

The cinnamon bun wreath is best served warm, making it a perfect morning treat. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a comforting breakfast or brunch. This wreath also works well as a dessert centerpiece, especially when served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Making a cinnamon bun wreath is a fun and rewarding way to elevate the classic cinnamon bun. Its beautiful presentation, combined with its delicious flavor, makes it the perfect treat for special occasions or simply to enjoy with family and friends. With a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can craft a stunning cinnamon bun wreath that will delight everyone at the table.