Cinnamon Star Bread: A Showstopping Holiday Treat
The holidays are the perfect time to gather in the kitchen, create something special, and share moments of joy with family and friends. If you’re looking for a recipe that combines stunning presentation with delicious flavors, look no further than this Cinnamon Star Bread inspired by @zoebakes.
This bread is simple to make yet looks like it came straight out of a bakery. The delicate layers of enriched dough, swirled with cinnamon-sugar goodness, make it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table—or even a thoughtful gift for a loved one. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to bake it again and again.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
1. It’s Surprisingly Easy: While it looks intricate, the steps are straightforward and fun to follow.
2. Family Fun: My kids love helping with the twists—it’s a festive way to get everyone involved.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, a holiday gathering, or a cozy snack, this bread shines.
Want more holiday baking inspiration?
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Ingredients
Enriched Dough
• 7 ½ cups (1,065 grams) all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup (67 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp (10 grams) yeast
• 1 tbsp (17 grams) kosher salt
• 3 cups (680 grams) lukewarm water
• ¼ cup oil
Cinnamon Star Bread
• 2 lbs enriched dough (recipe above)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Soft butter (for brushing)
How to Make Cinnamon Star Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, salt, water, and oil.
2. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rise for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Divide and Rest
1. Weigh out 2 pounds of the dough and divide it into four equal pieces.
2. Roll each piece into a ball and let them rest for 15 minutes, covered with plastic wrap.
Step 3: Create Layers
1. Roll each ball into a 12-inch circle.
2. Place one circle on parchment paper and brush with egg wash. Sprinkle with ⅓ of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
3. Add the second circle on top and repeat the process. Do the same with the third circle, then place the fourth circle on top without adding cinnamon sugar.
Step 4: Shape the Star
1. Place a small bowl (about 2 ½ inches in diameter) in the center of the stacked dough.
2. Use a knife or bench scraper to cut the dough into 16 equal strips, radiating outward from the center.
3. Remove the bowl and twist two strips away from each other twice, then pinch the ends together to form a point. Repeat this with all the strips until you have an 8-point star.
Step 5: Let It Rise
1. Cover the shaped star with plastic wrap and let it rise for about 1 hour, until slightly puffy.
Step 6: Bake and Finish
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Brush the bread with a final layer of egg wash.
2. Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Remove from the oven and brush with soft butter. Let cool for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
• Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. Let it come to room temperature before using.
• Creative Fillings: Swap the cinnamon-sugar filling for Nutella, jam, or even a savory option like pesto and cheese.
• Freezing Option: Bake the bread, cool completely, and freeze. Reheat in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
A Holiday Tradition Worth Sharing
This Cinnamon Star Bread has quickly become a family favorite in our home. From the rich aroma of cinnamon to the joy of sharing a slice around the table, it’s everything I love about holiday baking.
Make it for your next holiday gathering, or wrap it up as a heartfelt gift for someone special. Either way, it’s bound to bring a smile to anyone who tastes it.
Don’t forget to COMMENT “HOLIDAYS” below to receive an exclusive holiday recipe in your inbox!
Happy baking and warm wishes,
Tere
