Paul Hollywood Cinnamon Snowflake Recipe

If you’ve ever watched The Great British Bake Off and marveled at Paul Hollywood Cinnamon Snowflake Recipe, you’re in for a treat.

This paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake is more than just a recipe it’s an edible centerpiece that combines buttery enriched dough with swirls of cinnamon sugar, twisted into an impressive eight-pointed star.

While it looks incredibly intricate, this paul hollywood cinnamon star bread recipe breaks down into manageable steps that any home baker can master.

The result? A pull-apart bread that’s as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy, perfect for holiday gatherings or weekend brunch.

What Does Paul Hollywood’s Cinnamon Snowflake Taste Like?

The paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake bread delivers a heavenly combination of textures and flavors. Each pull reveals soft, pillowy layers of enriched dough that practically melt in your mouth, infused with warm cinnamon sugar that caramelizes slightly during baking.

The exterior boasts a beautiful golden-brown crust with a subtle crispness, while the interior remains tender and fluffy. The butter-brushed layers create distinct separation, allowing you to tear off individual sections easily.

The sweetness is perfectly balanced not overly sugary with cinnamon taking center stage alongside hints of buttery richness. A light dusting of confectioners’ sugar adds a delicate sweetness and that signature snowflake appearance that makes this bread utterly irresistible.

Ingredients and Kitchen Utensils

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm whole milk, 110°F (240mL)
• 1 (0.25-ounce) packet instant yeast
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50g)
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 3¾ cups all-purpose flour (450g)
• 1 teaspoon salt

The Filling:

• ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Topping:

• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon water
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Kitchen Utensils Needed:

• Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowls for filling and egg wash
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• 3-inch round cookie cutter or small bowl
• Pastry cutter or sharp knife
• Rimmed baking sheet
• Pastry brush
• Plastic wrap or clean tea towel
• Wire cooling rack

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (first rise + second rise)
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8-10 people

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Preparing the Enriched Dough

Step 1: In your stand mixer bowl, combine the warm milk (ensure it’s 110°F too hot kills yeast, too cold won’t activate it) with the instant yeast. Let this mixture stand undisturbed for about 10 minutes until it becomes very foamy and fragrant. This “blooming” process confirms your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Once the yeast mixture is beautifully foamy, add the melted butter, granulated sugar, and room-temperature egg. On top of these wet ingredients, carefully add all the flour and salt. Attach the dough hook to your mixer and begin mixing on low speed. Let the ingredients combine until a shaggy dough starts forming, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Increase the mixer speed to medium-low and continue kneading for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch as the dough transforms into a smooth, elastic ball that pulls away from the bowl’s sides (though it may still stick slightly to the bottom). This extended kneading develops the gluten structure essential for that perfect fluffy texture.

Step 4: Shape your dough into a smooth ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp tea towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.

Creating the Cinnamon Filling

Step 5: While the dough rises, prepare your filling by whisking together the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until evenly combined. Set aside. Have your melted butter ready for brushing.

Assembling the Snowflake Pattern

Step 6: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 4 equal pieces (use a kitchen scale for precision each should weigh about 165g). Shape each piece into a smooth ball.

Step 7: Roll one dough ball into a thin, roughly 12-inch circle. If your dough keeps shrinking back, let it rest for 5 minutes this allows the gluten to relax. For easier rolling, try working on an unfloured surface. Transfer this circle to a sheet of parchment paper.

Step 8: Lightly brush the dough circle with melted butter, leaving a ½-inch border around the edge. Sprinkle with one-third of your cinnamon-sugar mixture, distributing it evenly.

Step 9: Roll out a second dough ball to the same 12-inch size and carefully place it on top of the sugared layer. If the edges don’t align perfectly, gently pinch the top layer’s edge to the bottom layer to maintain the circular shape. Brush with butter and add another third of the cinnamon sugar.

Step 10: Repeat this layering process with the third dough ball butter, cinnamon sugar. Roll out your fourth and final dough ball and place it on top. Now trim any uneven edges with a knife or pastry cutter to create a clean 10- to 11-inch circle.

Creating the Signature Star Design

Step 11: Place a 3-inch round cookie cutter or small bowl in the center of your layered dough stack this will be your guide. Using a pastry cutter or very sharp knife, cut the circle into quarters, starting from the edge and stopping at the edge of the bowl. Then cut each quarter in half, and each of those pieces in half again. You should now have 16 triangular strips radiating from the center, all connected at the bowl.

Step 12: Here’s where the magic happens! Grab two adjacent dough strips, one in each hand. Twist them away from each other three times, creating a spiral effect. Lay them back down and pinch the ends together firmly. Repeat this twisting motion all around the circle with each pair of strips. You’ll end up with 8 beautiful twisted points forming a stunning star pattern. Carefully remove the cookie cutter from the center.

Step 13: Transfer the entire snowflake (still on the parchment paper) onto a rimmed baking sheet. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a tea towel and let it rise until noticeably puffed, about 20 to 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F.

Baking to Golden Perfection

Step 14: Beat together the egg and water until well combined to create an egg wash. If any of your twisted points have separated during rising, gently pinch them back together. Using a pastry brush, coat the entire surface of the puffed snowflake with the egg wash this creates that gorgeous golden sheen.

Step 15: Bake for 25 minutes, or until the paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake bread turns a beautiful golden brown. If you notice it browning too quickly, loosely tent with aluminum foil after 15 minutes. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped and reaches an internal temperature of about 190°F.

Step 16: Let the snowflake cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Just before serving, dust generously with confectioners’ sugar for that signature snowy appearance.

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Your Cinnamon Snowflake

1. Nutella Swirl Variation: Replace the cinnamon-sugar filling with Nutella spread between the layers for a chocolate-hazelnut twist on the classic paul hollywood cinnamon star bread recipe. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the buttery dough and creates an indulgent dessert bread that kids absolutely adore.

2. Apple Pie Filling Addition: Finely dice fresh apples and toss with cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of nutmeg. Spread this mixture between your dough layers alongside the butter for an apple cinnamon snowflake that tastes like autumn in bread form. The fruit adds moisture and a delightful texture contrast.

3. Cream Cheese Glaze Drizzle: Instead of just powdered sugar, whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk to create a tangy glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled snowflake for a flavor profile reminiscent of cinnamon rolls. This pairing elevates the bread from breakfast to brunch centerpiece.

4. Cardamom and Orange Zest Enhancement: Add ½ teaspoon ground cardamom to your cinnamon sugar and incorporate fresh orange zest into the dough for a Scandinavian-inspired twist. This aromatic combination brings complexity and sophistication, perfect for holiday entertaining.

5. Savory Garlic Herb Version: Transform this paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake bread recipe into a savory appetizer by replacing the sweet filling with melted butter mixed with minced garlic, fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley), and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve alongside marinara sauce for dipping perfect for Italian dinner nights.

6. Maple Pecan Filling: Mix chopped toasted pecans with maple sugar (or brown sugar with maple extract) and spread between layers. Finish with a maple glaze made from powdered sugar and pure maple syrup. This combination creates a sophisticated flavor profile ideal for Thanksgiving or autumn gatherings.

7. Coffee and Breakfast Pairing Suggestions: Serve your warm paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake with freshly brewed coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced chai tea. The bread also pairs wonderfully with softened butter, apple butter, or mascarpone cheese for spreading. For a complete brunch spread, serve alongside scrambled eggs, fresh fruit salad, and crispy bacon to balance the sweetness.

7 Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Snowflake Bread

1. Temperature Matters for Yeast Activation: The single most critical factor in bread-making success is using milk at exactly 110°F. Invest in an instant-read thermometer milk that’s too hot (above 120°F) will kill your yeast, while milk that’s too cool won’t activate it properly. If your mixture doesn’t foam after 10 minutes, your yeast is likely dead, and you’ll need to start over with fresh ingredients.

2. Don’t Skip the Gluten Development: That 8-10 minute kneading time isn’t optional it’s what creates the elastic, stretchy dough that holds all those beautiful layers together. You’ll know the dough is ready when it passes the “windowpane test”: stretch a small piece between your fingers, and it should form a thin, translucent membrane without tearing immediately.

3. Master the Rolling Technique: When rolling out your dough circles, work from the center outward with even pressure, rotating the dough frequently to maintain a circular shape. If the dough keeps shrinking back (a sign of tight gluten), cover it and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Also, try rolling on an unfloured surface the slight stick actually helps grip and stretch the dough more effectively than a heavily floured surface.

4. Layer Consistency is Key: For the most dramatic visual effect in your paul hollywood cinnamon star bread recipe, roll all four dough circles to the same thickness and diameter. Inconsistent layers will twist unevenly and may pull apart during baking. Use a ruler if needed each circle should be about 12 inches in diameter before trimming.

5. Sharp Tools for Clean Cuts: Use a pizza cutter, pastry wheel, or extremely sharp knife to cut your triangular sections. Dull blades will drag and compress the dough layers rather than cutting cleanly through them, which can seal the layers together and prevent the beautiful separation you’re aiming for. Make decisive, confident cuts in one smooth motion.

6. The Twist Technique Demystified: When twisting your dough strips, hold them firmly and twist in opposite directions one hand clockwise, one counterclockwise. Twist exactly three times for uniform appearance, and don’t be shy about really twisting them. Under-twisted sections won’t show the spiral effect, while over-twisted ones may break. If a section does break, simply pinch it back together with damp fingers.

7. Prevent Over-Browning with Strategic Tenting: The paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake bread has many exposed surfaces and pointed tips that can over-brown before the center cooks through. Keep a close eye starting at the 15-minute mark, and loosely tent with foil if the tips are getting too dark. This allows the interior to finish baking while protecting the exterior. Your snowflake is perfectly done when it’s golden brown, sounds hollow when tapped, and has an internal temperature of 190-195°F.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store your cooled cinnamon snowflake bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to restore freshness.

Common Questions About Paul Hollywood’s Cinnamon Snowflake

Can I make the paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! This bread is perfect for make-ahead baking. After the first rise, punch down the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. The cold fermentation actually develops more complex flavors. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to take the chill off before dividing and rolling. Alternatively, you can assemble the entire snowflake, cover it well, and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let it come to room temperature and complete the second rise (which may take 45-60 minutes from cold), then bake as directed.

Why didn’t my dough rise properly?

Several factors could prevent proper rising in your paul hollywood cinnamon star bread recipe. Most commonly, the yeast was either expired or killed by liquid that was too hot. Always check the expiration date on your yeast packet and use a thermometer to ensure your milk is at 110°F. Another culprit is a cold environment yeast needs warmth to activate. Place your dough in a warm spot (75-80°F is ideal), such as inside your oven with just the light on, on top of the refrigerator, or near (not on) a warm stovetop. If your kitchen is very cold, the rising time may need to extend beyond the suggested hour.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but with a slight modification. Active dry yeast needs to be dissolved in the warm milk first and given about 10 minutes to bloom before adding any other ingredients. You’ll use the same amount (one 0.25-ounce packet or 2¼ teaspoons), but the timing is crucial. With instant yeast, you can add it directly to the flour, but active dry must dissolve in liquid first. The final result will be nearly identical, though some bakers find instant yeast produces a slightly better rise.

How do I prevent my snowflake layers from fusing together?

The key to distinct, separable layers in your paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake bread recipe is generous butter and sugar application between each layer, making sure to cover the entire surface except that ½-inch border. The butter creates a barrier that prevents the dough layers from melting together. Also, don’t press down on the layers when stacking gently place each new circle on top. During the twisting process, handle the dough firmly but avoid squeezing, which can compress and seal the layers. Finally, make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking, as the initial blast of heat sets the structure quickly.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

While a stand mixer makes the process easier, you can absolutely make this paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake by hand. After combining the wet and dry ingredients, turn the dough out onto a clean counter and knead by hand for about 12-15 minutes. Use the push-fold-turn method: push the dough away with the heel of your hand, fold it back over itself, rotate a quarter turn, and repeat. Your arms will get a workout, but the result will be just as delicious. The dough is ready when it’s smooth, elastic, and springs back when poked.

Can I freeze the baked snowflake bread?

Yes! The baked paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake bread freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible. Don’t dust with confectioners’ sugar before freezing. To serve, thaw at room temperature for 2-3 hours, then reheat in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes. Add the powdered sugar dusting after reheating for the freshest appearance.

Why is my dough too sticky or too dry?

Flour measurement is the most common culprit for texture issues. If you’re using the scoop-and-dump method, you may be packing too much flour, resulting in dry dough. Instead, spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off, or better yet, use a kitchen scale (450g is the target). Humidity also affects flour absorption on humid days, you may need slightly more flour; on dry days, slightly less. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too wet, add flour one tablespoon at a time during kneading. If too dry, add milk one teaspoon at a time.

How do I get the perfect golden-brown color?

That gorgeous color comes from proper egg wash application and correct oven temperature. Make sure to brush the egg wash over every visible surface, including all the twisted points and crevices. Use a pastry brush with soft bristles to get into all the nooks. Bake at exactly 375°F (use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy) and don’t open the oven door for the first 15 minutes, as temperature fluctuations can affect browning. If your snowflake is browning unevenly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through. The egg wash creates that professional bakery sheen that makes the paul hollywood cinnamon star bread recipe look truly spectacular.

What’s the best way to serve this bread?

The paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake is designed to be a pull-apart bread, so place it in the center of your table and let guests tear off sections. Serve it warm (about 10-15 minutes out of the oven) when the layers are most distinct and the cinnamon sugar is still slightly gooey. It’s perfect as a standalone breakfast or brunch item, but you can also serve it with butter, cream cheese, or fruit preserves on the side. For a dessert presentation, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The dramatic presentation makes it ideal for holiday mornings, special brunches, or any time you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

This paul hollywood cinnamon snowflake bread recipe proves that bakery-worthy creations are absolutely achievable in your home kitchen. While the twisted design looks intricate, breaking it down into simple steps mix, layer, cut, twist makes it surprisingly manageable, even for intermediate bakers.

The combination of buttery enriched dough, sweet cinnamon swirls, and that stunning star presentation creates a show-stopping centerpiece that tastes every bit as good as it looks.

Whether you’re serving it for a holiday breakfast or weekend brunch, this pull-apart bread will have everyone reaching for seconds and asking for the recipe.

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