Cinnamon Marzipan Ring

Directions

1. 1
   Combine flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix in 1/2 cup butter and the whole egg. Heat milk until lukewarm, dissolve yeast in it and stir into dough. Knead for 2 mins until smooth and pliable. Cover, and leave in a warm place for 30-40 mins to rise.
2. 2
   Combine cinnamon, remaining sugar and vanilla extract. Lightly beat the egg white with a fork and mix with the marzipan. Melt remaining butter and leave to cool. Turn dough onto a floured surface, knead briefly, then roll out into a long rectangle about 14 x 25 inches.
3. 3
   Brush dough with two thirds of lukewarm butter. Sprinkle grated marzipan over dough, leaving a 1 inch strip around edges. Lightly press marzipan into dough. Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture. Roll up the dough from one long side and transfer to a large sheet of parchment paper.
4. 4
   Preheat oven to 400°F. Slice through dough lengthwise to make two strands joined at one end. Shape strands into a twist, then press ends of twist together firmly to make a ring. Lift with parchment paper onto a baking sheet. Brush with remaining butter and leave in a warm place for 20 mins.
5. 5
   Place in oven on center rack and bake for 25-30 mins, covering with foil after 20 mins. Remove from over, lift the ring with the baking paper onto a wire rack and allow to cool.