Save A festive, pull-apart bread shaped like a star, filled with aromatic garlic butter, herbs, and cheese—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This bread has become a family favorite during holidays, loved for its flavor and the fun way it pulls apart.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 1/2 cups (440 g) all-purpose flour 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp / 7 g) instant yeast 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter, melted 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated sugar 1 tsp salt
- Garlic Butter Filling: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened 4 cloves garlic, finely minced 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh parsley, chopped 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Topping: 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter, melted 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional) 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes, until foamy.
- Step 2:
- Add melted butter, flour, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 3:
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 4:
- Meanwhile, prepare the garlic butter filling by mixing softened butter, garlic, parsley, Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Step 5:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 6:
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 10-inch (25 cm) circle.
- Step 7:
- Place one circle on the prepared baking sheet. Spread a third of the garlic butter mixture evenly over it.
- Step 8:
- Layer the next dough circle on top, spread with another third of the filling. Repeat with the third circle and remaining filling. Top with the final dough circle.
- Step 9:
- Place a small cup in the center of the dough stack (do not cut through it). Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 16 equal strips, radiating from the cup.
- Step 10:
- Take two adjacent strips and twist them away from each other twice, then pinch the ends together to form a point. Repeat with all pairs to form a star shape.
- Step 11:
- Cover with a towel and let rise for 15 minutes.
- Step 12:
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan if desired.
- Step 13:
- Bake for 22 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Step 14:
- Cool slightly before serving. Pull apart to enjoy.
Save This recipe brings everyone together as we gather around the table to pull apart the bread and share stories.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Rolling pin Baking sheet Parchment paper Sharp knife Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), milk, butter, cheese Always check labels if concerned May contain traces of nuts or soy, depending on flour and cheese brands
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340 Total Fat: 16 g Carbohydrates: 40 g Protein: 9 g
Save Enjoy this stunning and tasty star-shaped garlic bread as a festive addition to any meal.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I shape the star bread?
After layering the dough circles with garlic butter filling, place a small cup in the center and cut the dough into 16 strips radiating from the cup. Twist each adjacent pair twice outward and pinch the ends to form points creating a star shape.
- → Can I prepare the garlic butter filling ahead?
Yes, the garlic butter mixture can be made in advance and refrigerated to enhance flavors before assembling the bread.
- → What alternatives can I add to the filling?
For extra flavor, try adding chopped chives or a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese to the garlic butter filling.
- → Is this bread suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this bread uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients like butter, cheese, herbs, and no meat products.
- → What is the best way to serve the bread?
Serve slightly cooled for easy pulling apart and pair it with a marinara dipping sauce for added zest.