Save A festive, pull-apart bread shaped like a star, filled with aromatic garlic butter, herbs, and cheese—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This bread quickly became a holiday favorite at our family gatherings, everyone loves pulling apart the delicious star points.
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 Our family eagerly gathers around the table to pull apart this bread, sharing stories and laughter every holiday season.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Rolling pin, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Sharp knife, Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), milk, butter, cheese. May contain traces of nuts or soy, depending on flour and cheese brands. Always check labels if concerned.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 9 g per serving
Save This star shaped garlic bread is the perfect centerpiece for any party or holiday meal, bringing warmth and joy to your table.
Kitchen Q&A
- → How do I shape the bread into a star?
After stacking the filled dough layers, place a small cup in the center. Cut the dough into equal strips radiating from the center, then twist adjacent strips away from each other twice and pinch their ends to form points of the star.
- → Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bread and refrigerate it before the final rise. When ready, let it come to room temperature and bake as directed.
- → What are some alternatives to Parmesan cheese in the filling?
Mozzarella or a mild cheddar can be used for a different flavor profile, though Parmesan adds a distinctive savory touch.
- → Is this bread suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this bread uses vegetarian ingredients including butter, milk, and cheese without any meat products.
- → How should I serve this bread for best taste?
Serve warm, optionally with a marinara dipping sauce or alongside soups and salads for a flavorful appetizer or snack.