How to Make a Cinnamon Roll Wreath

- For the Dough:

- 1/2 cup warm water (110-115°F)

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

- 2 large eggs, at room temperature

- For the Filling:

- 1 cup packed light brown sugar

- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted

- For the Glaze:

- 1 cup powdered sugar

- 1/4 cup heavy cream

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes, until the yeast is foamy.

- Add the flour, granulated sugar, and salt to the mixer bowl. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are combined.

- Increase the speed to medium and beat for 5 minutes, until the dough comes together and forms a ball.

- Add the softened butter, one piece at a time, and continue to beat until the butter is fully incorporated and the dough is smooth and elastic.

- Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat until well combined.

- Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling:

- In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom. Stir until well combined. Set aside.

3. Shape the Wreath:

- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

- Grease a large baking sheet.

- Roll out the risen dough on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle about 12x20 inches.

- Brush the dough with the melted butter.

- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

- Starting from the long side, roll the dough up tightly into a long cylinder.

- Pinch the edges to seal.

- Form the rolled dough into a wreath shape, pinching the ends together to connect them.

- Place the wreath on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the Wreath:

- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the wreath is golden brown.

5. Prepare the Glaze:

- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.

6. Glaze the Wreath:

- As soon as the wreath comes out of the oven, brush the top with the glaze.

- Let the wreath cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious cinnamon roll wreath!