Cinnamon Roll Snowflake Recipe – A Festive Treat to Warm Your Holidays

I still remember the first time I made a cinnamon roll snowflake. It was a frosty December morning, and the kitchen windows were fogged up with the heat from the oven. I had invited a few close friends over for a holiday brunch, and I wanted something visually stunning yet comforting on the table. 

I stumbled upon this idea while scrolling through festive baking ideas the night before. The result? A golden, buttery, spiced pastry that not only wowed everyone visually but had them asking for seconds—and the recipe.

There’s something magical about this cinnamon roll snowflake. It combines the soft, pillowy dough and sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl we all love with a beautiful, festive snowflake shape that’s perfect for winter gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, sharing it as a gift, or enjoying it by the fireplace with hot cocoa, this recipe delivers flavor, warmth, and joy in every pull-apart piece.

People love this recipe because it brings together the charm of traditional cinnamon rolls with a decorative, shareable twist. Its starburst shape makes it a showstopper on any table, while the familiar flavors provide comfort and nostalgia. Plus, it’s easier to make than it looks!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Snowflake Recipe

Dough 

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  
• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
  
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
  
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  
• 1 large egg
  
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  
• ½ tsp salt
  

Filling

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  
• ½ cup brown sugar
  
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  

Optional Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
  
• 1–2 tbsp milk
  
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
  

Ingredient Variation Suggestions

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
  
• Nutty Twist: Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the filling for a crunchy texture.
  
• Zesty Flavor: Mix orange zest into the filling or glaze for a citrus burst.
  
• Chocolate Lovers: Swap cinnamon for cocoa powder and mini chocolate chips.
  

How to Make a Cinnamon Roll Snowflake?

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm area for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until a spreadable paste forms.

Step 4: Shape the Snowflake

1. Divide the dough into four equal parts.
   
2. Roll out the first piece into a 10–12-inch circle and place it on parchment paper. Spread a third of the filling on top.
   
3. Repeat with the next two layers, ending with the final layer of dough on top (no filling on this one).
   
4. Place a small round object (like a glass) in the center. From the outer edge of the center circle, cut the dough into 16 equal strips.
   
5. Twist two adjacent strips away from each other twice, then pinch ends together to form a “petal.” Repeat for all strips.
   

Step 5: Final Rise & Bake

Cover the shaped snowflake with a towel and let it rise for 20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Glaze & Serve

Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the warm bread or dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Snowflake

• Dough Consistency: Don’t over-flour. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
  
• Warm Rise: Let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to speed things up.
  
• Clean Cuts: Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to make even, clean slices.
  
• Even Twists: Twist each pair the same number of times for a symmetrical look.
  
• Bake on Parchment: Makes transferring and cleanup much easier.
  

Final Thoughts on Cinnamon Roll Snowflake Recipe

This cinnamon roll snowflake isn’t just a recipe—it’s a celebration. A centerpiece-worthy pastry that feels like it came from a fancy bakery, but with all the love and warmth of home baking. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a tradition the moment you make it. Share it with family, surprise your coworkers, or make one just for yourself on a chilly Sunday morning—you won’t regret it.