Christmas Tree Coffee Cake

My Christmas Tree Coffee Cake Tradition

The aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet pineapple fills my kitchen every holiday season. It's the scent of family gatherings, cozy mornings, and the magic of Christmas. This year, as I prepare my annual Christmas Tree Coffee Cake, I'm reminded of the joy this recipe brings. It's more than just a dessert; it's a tradition, a symbol of festive cheer that I've passed down (and continue to refine) throughout the years.

I first encountered this recipe years ago, tucked away in the pages of a well-loved Good Housekeeping magazine. The original description was simple enough—a coffee cake shaped like a Christmas tree—but the picture, oh, the picture! A luscious, golden-brown confection, adorned with glistening cherries, promised a taste of pure holiday delight. I immediately knew I had to try it, and the results were far beyond my expectations.

My family eagerly anticipates this cake, particularly my young nieces and nephews. For them, it's not just a treat; it's a centerpiece of our holiday breakfast, a testament to the special memories created around the table. The process of making it has become a cherished ritual. The children love helping me roll out the dough, carefully arranging the slices to create the tree's shape, and eagerly watching it bake until golden perfection.

The coffee cake is not just a decoration; its taste is exquisite. The soft, pillowy dough is perfectly complemented by the tangy pineapple and creamy cream cheese filling. Each bite offers a complex tapestry of flavors, a harmony of sweet and subtly tart notes that perfectly encapsulates the festive spirit. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years—the best brand of cream cheese, the secret to perfectly golden-brown edges, and the precise amount of time needed for the dough to rise and bake to absolute perfection.

The recipe, while straightforward, allows for creative expression. Sometimes, I embellish it further with a dusting of powdered sugar, transforming it into a snowy masterpiece. Other times, I opt for a simpler presentation, letting the beauty of the cake speak for itself. The heart of the recipe remains unchanged, though, a timeless classic designed for those who appreciate the comfort and joy of homemade treats.

But it's more than just a recipe; it's a story. It's a story of family, traditions, and the simple pleasure of creating something delicious and beautiful to share with those we love. As I decorate the cake each year, arranging the carefully halved cherries to create the tree's vibrant decorations, I'm reminded of all those I love and cherish, and the warmth and joy that surrounds us during this special time of year.

This Christmas Tree Coffee Cake isn't merely a dessert; it's a symbol of the magic of the season, a testament to the enduring power of tradition, and a reminder that even the simplest of acts—like baking a cake—can create lasting memories and bring immeasurable joy. This year, as I share this recipe with you, I hope you'll find yourself creating your own traditions and memories in the kitchen, filled with the warmth of loved ones and the sweet aroma of freshly baked goodness.

So, gather your loved ones, dust off your aprons, and embark on this delicious culinary journey. The result is more than just a coffee cake; it's an experience, a celebration, a piece of heartfelt holiday magic that will be cherished for years to come. May your kitchen be filled with laughter and love, and may your holidays be as sweet as this incredibly delicious and festive treat!

Step-by-step

• In large mixing bowl thoroughly mix 2 cups flour, sugar, salt & dry yeast. Set aside.
• In small saucepan combine milk, water and butter. Heat to 130°F (butter does not need to melt).
• Slowly add liquid to the above dry ingredients; beat for 2 minutes with electric mixer, scraping bowl occasionally.
• Add egg and 1 cup flour. Beat at high speed additional 2 minutes.
• Stir in enough remaining flour to make stiff dough (approx. 1 cup).
• Cover tightly. Refrigerate at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.
• When ready to make rolls, prepare filling.
• In large mixing bowl combine cream cheese, sugar, salt, nutmeg and vanilla. Beat just until well blended.
• Stir in drained pineapple.
• Grease 2 large cookie sheets.
• Divide dough in half; keep one half in refrigerator while working with other half.
• On lightly floured surface roll first dough half to an 11" x 10" rectangle.
• Spread with half of the cream cheese pineapple filling.
• Roll up on 11" side- pinch seams to seal.
• Cut into 1" slices and arrange in shape of Christmas tree on cookie sheet.
• Cover lightly with plastic wrap.
• Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
• Let arranged slices rise approximately 1 hour in draft free warm place.
• Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake 15 minutes; cover with aluminum foil to prevent browning.
• Bake additional 5-10 minutes.
• Remove from oven and allow to cool.
• Place cherries, cut side down in center of each roll.
• Combine powdered sugar with milk and drizzle over the rolls.