Star Bread
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
For the Filling (choose one or more):
Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Nutella Filling:
1/2 cup Nutella or other chocolate-hazelnut spread
Fruit Filling:
1/2 cup fruit preserves or jam (such as raspberry, apricot, or strawberry)
Savory Filling:
1/2 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
1/4 cup finely chopped cooked ham or bacon (optional)
1 tablespoon dried herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
For the Egg Wash:
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon milk
For Garnish (optional):
Powdered sugar
Additional cinnamon sugar
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, softened butter, and eggs. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients.
Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
Prepare your chosen filling(s) and set aside.
Shape the Bread:
Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal parts.
Roll out the first piece of dough into a large circle (about 12 inches in diameter) on a lightly floured surface.
Spread your chosen filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll out the second piece of dough into a similar-sized circle and place it on top of the first layer of dough. Spread the filling again, if using.
Roll out the third piece of dough and place it on top of the filled layers.
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 12 equal sections, but leave the center of the dough uncut (about 2 inches in diameter). Twist each section gently to form a star shape, pinching the ends to secure them if needed.
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