Holiday Star Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Beautiful Presentation: The star shape makes it a show-stopping centerpiece.
• Soft & Fluffy: A rich, buttery dough creates a tender texture.
• Versatile Filling: Customize with cinnamon sugar, Nutella, jam, or even savory options.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt

For the Filling:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon

For the Topping:

• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and egg.
3. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a spreadable paste.

Step 3: Assemble the Star Bread

1. Divide the dough into four equal pieces and roll each into a 10-inch circle.
2. Place one dough circle on a baking sheet and spread with ⅓ of the cinnamon filling.
3. Repeat with the next two layers, spreading the filling between each.
4. Place the final dough layer on top.

Step 4: Shape the Star

1. Place a small cup in the center of the dough stack.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut 16 evenly spaced strips, starting from the edge toward the center.
3. Twist two adjacent strips outward twice, then pinch the ends together. Repeat around the dough to form an 8-point star.

Step 5: Bake

1. Brush the dough with egg wash.
2. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Let cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Preparation Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

• Nutella Star Bread: Use Nutella instead of cinnamon sugar.
• Jam-Filled: Spread fruit preserves between layers.
• Savory Option: Use pesto and cheese instead of sweet filling.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or microwave for a few seconds.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough and refrigerate overnight before shaping and baking.

Do I need to use an egg wash?

The egg wash gives the bread a golden-brown shine, but you can skip it if desired.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, but homemade dough provides the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Holiday Star Bread is a delightful, pull-apart treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether filled with cinnamon sugar, Nutella, or jam, this beautiful bread is sure to impress at any gathering. Try it this holiday season!

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