Star Bread is not only delicious but also a showstopper in terms of presentation. Here’s a detailed recipe for you:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
For the Dough:
- Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk, stir gently, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Make Dough:
- Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients, followed by the wet ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Assemble the Star Bread:
- Divide and Roll:
- Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a ball.
- Roll Out the First Disk:
- Roll out the first ball into a circle about 10-12 inches in diameter.
- Add Filling:
- Spread a layer of softened butter on the rolled-out dough and sprinkle it with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
- Repeat Layers:
- Repeat the process with the remaining three balls, stacking each rolled-out dough on top of the previous one with the filling.
- Create Layers:
- You should end up with a stack of four dough circles with filling between each layer.
- Cut and Shape:
- Place a small round object (like a glass or bowl) in the center of the stacked dough as a guide. With a sharp knife, cut the dough into four equal sections, leaving the center uncut.
- Shape the Star:
- Take each section and twist it twice in one direction. Repeat for all four sections.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the shaped star with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the star bread for 20-25 minutes or until it’s golden brown.
Glaze and Serve:
- Make Glaze:
- While the star bread is cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Glaze the Bread:
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled star bread.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve your beautiful and delicious Star Bread!
Enjoy the layers of flavor and the stunning design of your homemade Star Bread!