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–+ servings
Christmas Morning Star Bread

Christmas Morning Star Bread to Brighten Your Holidays

Experience the joy of baking with Christmas Morning Star Bread, a delicious centerpiece for your holiday breakfast.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Essential for structure; make sure it's fresh for the best rise.
  • 2 tablespoons active dry yeast Provides the perfect fluff; ensure it's within the expiration date.
  • 1 cup warm milk Helps activate the yeast; use about 110°F.
  • ½ cup brown butter Adds rich flavor; brown unsalted butter if needed.
  • 2 large eggs Contributes to the dough's richness; use room temperature.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor; consider adding almond extract.
For the Filling
  • ½ cup brown sugar Offers sweetness; light brown sugar can be an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon Adds warmth and spice; increase amount for more flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest Infuses freshness; lemon zest can work as well.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Complements the sweet flavors.
For the Pecan Caramel Sauce
  • 1 cup pecans Provides crunch; can switch to almonds.
  • ½ cup brown sugar Sweetens the sauce; use dark brown for richer flavor.
  • ¼ cup butter Adds creaminess; unsalted for better control.
  • ½ cup heavy cream Gives a luxurious texture; coconut cream is a substitute.
For Dusting
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar Gives a pretty finish; consider erythritol for sugar-free.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Stand Mixer
  • Baking Sheet
  • wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of active dry yeast, 1 cup of warm milk (110°F), ½ cup of brown butter, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until smooth and elastic, about 5–7 minutes.
  2. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for approximately 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  3. While the dough is rising, mix ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a separate bowl.
  4. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently, then divide into four equal pieces. Roll each into a thin circle on a floured surface.
  5. Spread the filling over the first circle, top with another circle, and repeat until all layers are stacked. Cut into a star shape, leaving the center intact.
  6. Carefully twist the outer strands away from each other, sealing the tips together to maintain the star shape.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the star bread rest for 20 minutes. Bake for about 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Once baked, cool slightly, drizzle with warm pecan caramel sauce, and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure milk is at 110°F for yeast activation. Knead until dough is smooth and elastic. Punch down gently after proofing. Roll each layer thin for best flavor melding.

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