Go Back

Christmas Morning Star Bread

This beautiful pull-apart star bread, infused with warm cinnamon and nut flavors, is a delightful centerpiece for your holiday breakfast.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 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.
  • 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.
Filling and Sauce Ingredients
  • 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.
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar Gives a pretty finish; consider erythritol for sugar-free.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, orange zest, and salt. Add frothy yeast mixture, brown butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it into a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into four pieces. Roll each piece into a circle. Layer the circles, spreading a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans between each layer.
  5. Once layered, cut the circle into 16 wedges without cutting all the way through the center. Twist two adjacent wedges away from each other to form points of a star.
  6. Cover the shaped star bread and let it rise for about 30 minutes.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the star bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in brown sugar and heavy cream. Cook until thickened, then stir in powdered sugar.
  3. Once the bread is done, drizzle the sauce over it. Enjoy warm.

Notes

To store any leftover star bread, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for about 2 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy again.