Cinnamon Ring Roll(Christmas Coffee Cake)
A warm, cinnamon-scented coffee cake featuring soft dough balls layered in a pan, topped with cherries and pecans, perfect for festive celebrations and sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let the milk cool to lukewarm and add the yeast. Stir with a plastic spoon until dissolved.
- Cream the shortening and 2 tablespoons of sugar together. Add the beaten eggs.
- Add the milk mixture, salt, and approximately 5 cups of flour. Mix well.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk.
- Punch down the dough.
- Pinch off small pieces and roll them into walnut-sized balls.
- Dip each ball in melted butter, then roll in a cinnamon and sugar mixture.
- Layer the balls in a greased 10-inch tube pan.
- Let the dough rise about 1 hour.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown.
- Turn the cake onto a tray. Decorate with maraschino cherries and pecan halves.
- Optional: Freeze and reheat later for convenience.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk or adding a splash of vanilla extract to the dough. If you run out of shortening, unsalted butter can be a suitable substitute. Make sure to keep the dough covered while it rises to prevent it from drying out. Using a kitchen scale for the flour can help achieve perfect consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful Cinnamon Ring Roll pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch option. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait for a balanced meal. For an extra treat, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store any leftover Cinnamon Ring Roll in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place slices in a toaster oven or microwave briefly until warmed through, ensuring they remain moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon Ring Roll(Christmas Coffee Cake) contains roughly 986 calories, with 10g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1117mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Simply mix it directly into the flour without needing to dissolve it in milk. Keep in mind that the rising time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on the dough as it rises.
How can I make the dough rise faster?
To speed up the rising process, place the dough in a warm, draft-free area. You can also preheat your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turn it off and place the dough inside, covered with a damp cloth, to create a warm environment.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can lead to a denser final product.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).