The holiday season is the perfect time to fill your home with the warm, tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread. And what better way to do it than with Holiday Star Bread? This gorgeous, pull-apart bread is not only a treat for the palate but also a centerpiece-worthy addition to your holiday table.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this festive masterpiece.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with a bread that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
What Is Holiday Star Bread?
Holiday Star Bread is a braided bread shaped like a star and filled with sweet or savory layers. With its intricate design, it may look intimidating, but the process is straightforward when broken down into steps. Typically, the bread is made with a soft, enriched dough and filled with ingredients like cinnamon sugar, Nutella, or even savory cheeses and herbs.
Its pull-apart form makes it perfect for sharing, making it ideal for gatherings during Christmas, Hanukkah, or any winter holiday.
Why You’ll Love It:
- A show-stopping presentation that’ll wow your guests
- Endless customization options for sweet or savory spins
- Easy-to-follow steps for bakers of all levels
- Delicious and fluffy bread with every tear
Sound like the perfect addition to your holiday menu? Keep reading for the complete recipe!
Ingredients for Holiday Star Bread
Here’s what you’ll need to get started. Most of these items are pantry staples, with the addition of your favorite filling.
For the Dough
- 2 ¾ cups (350g) all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
- ½ cup (120ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling (Cinnamon Sugar Option)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup (70g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Feel free to swap in Nutella, jam, or a savory alternative like pesto and Parmesan for different variations!
For the Egg Wash
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp milk
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Honey or maple syrup glaze for extra shine
Instructions for Making Holiday Star Bread
Follow these steps to craft your stunning Holiday Star Bread!
Step 1. Prepare the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the warm milk, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead: Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and allow it to rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2. Roll Out and Layer the Dough
- Divide the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into four equal portions.
- Roll Each Portion: Roll each piece into a circle about 10 inches (25cm) in diameter.
- Build the Layers: Place the first circle on a lined baking sheet. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture (or your chosen filling). Repeat with the second and third layers, brushing and sprinkling between each. Top with the fourth circle, but don’t add filling to the top layer.
Step 3. Shape the Star
- Mark the Center: Place a small cup or bowl (about 2 inches in diameter) in the center of the dough stack.
- Cut the Dough: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough stack into 16 equal segments, starting from the edge of the center circle outward.
- Twist the Segments: Pick up two adjacent segments and twist them outward twice, then pinch the ends together to seal. Repeat for all pairs of segments to form the star shape.
Step 4. Final Rise and Bake
- Second Rise: Cover the star with a towel and allow it to rise for 20–30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the entire star gently with the egg wash.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Step 5. Add Finishing Touches
Once out of the oven, dust with powdered sugar or brush with a honey glaze for extra sweetness and shine.
Pro Tip: Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Customization Ideas for Your Star Bread
While cinnamon sugar is a classic choice, the possibilities for fillings are endless. Here are a few ideas to try:
- Sweet Options:
- Nutella and chopped hazelnuts
- Lemon curd and cream cheese
- Raspberry jam and almond paste
- Savory Options:
- Garlic butter with Parmesan and herbs
- Basil pesto and shredded mozzarella
- Sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese
Feel free to experiment and make it your own!
Why Holiday Star Bread Is Perfect for Your Festive Table
Holiday Star Bread stands out not only for its flavor but also for its visual appeal. It’s a conversation starter, a bonding experience for families baking together, and a treat to share with guests. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Make this holiday season extra memorable with a centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is stunning.
Bake Your Holiday Star Bread Today
Now that you’ve got the step-by-step guide, it’s time to try it out! Share your creations with us by tagging @HolidayStarBakers on Instagram or using #HolidayStarBread. We can’t wait to see your festive masterpieces.
Happy baking!
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