Save It 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 in my family because of its beautiful presentation and delicious taste.
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 It This bread always brings our family together during the holidays as we pull apart pieces and share stories.
Notes
For extra flavor add chopped chives or a sprinkle of mozzarella to the filling Serve warm with a marinara dipping sauce To make ahead assemble and refrigerate before the final rise then bake when ready
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
Save It This garlic bread adds a festive touch to any meal and is easy to share with loved ones.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the star bread?
Divide the dough into four circles and layer each with garlic butter. Cut the stacked dough into strips radiating from the center, then twist adjacent strips twice and pinch ends to form points.
- → Can I prepare the bread in advance?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before the final rise, then bake when ready for fresh, warm bread.
- → What fillings complement the garlic butter?
Adding chopped chives or mozzarella enhances flavor; fresh parsley and Parmesan provide brightness and richness.
- → What is the baking temperature and time?
Bake the bread at 375°F (190°C) for 22-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- → Are there common allergens in this dish?
This bread contains wheat gluten, milk, butter, and cheese. Check ingredient labels for traces of nuts or soy if needed.