Christmas Morning Star Bread
Christmas Morning Star Bread to Brighten Your Holidays
There’s something truly magical about waking up on Christmas morning to the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. This Christmas Morning Star Bread is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a feast for your eyes and soul. With its golden, braided shape and sweet, spiced filling, this delightful bread makes for a wonderful centerpiece during holiday brunches or breakfast gatherings. I’ve made this recipe for years, and every time it brings joyous smiles and satisfied belly rumbles from family and friends.
Why make this recipe
You’ll love this dish for its stunning presentation and delicious taste, which combine to create a perfect holiday tradition. It’s not just a visual treat; the layers of buttery, cinnamon-spiced goodness wrapped in delicate dough will surely become a favorite. Perfect for Christmas morning, this recipe allows you to share joy and warmth with loved ones as they gather around the table.
"We made this for Christmas breakfast, and it was an instant hit! Not only was it beautiful, but the flavors were incredible—just the right mix of sweet and spicy!"
The cooking process explained
Making Christmas Morning Star Bread is simpler than it looks, with just a few straightforward steps that can be completed in about 3 hours (including rising time!). You’ll start by preparing the dough, let it rise until doubled, and then roll it out, fill it, braid, and finally bake it to golden perfection. The layers of warm spices and sweet pecans make this a recipe worth the wait!
Gather these items
Here’s what you’ll need to create this lovely bread:
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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 cup pecans
Provides crunch; can switch to almonds.
For the filling:
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½ cup brown sugar
Sweetens the sauce; use dark brown for a richer flavor. -
¼ cup butter
Adds creaminess; use 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 options.
Step-by-step instructions
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Prepare the dough: In a bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
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Mix the wet and dry ingredients: Add the brown butter, eggs, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and cinnamon into the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
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Add the flour: Gradually add the flour, mixing well until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes until smooth.
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First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled (about 1-1.5 hours).
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Prepare the filling: While the dough rises, mix together the brown sugar, chopped pecans, and additional spices in a bowl.
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Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
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Assemble the bread: Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the filling evenly on top.
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Shape the bread: Cut the dough into equal strips and create a star shape by layering and twisting the pieces.
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Second rise: Cover the shaped bread and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
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Bake the bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
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Make the glaze: Combine heavy cream and powdered sugar in a bowl while the bread bakes.
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Serve: Let the bread cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze.
Best ways to enjoy it
For a festive presentation, serve the Christmas Morning Star Bread on a large platter, dusted with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. Pair it with freshly brewed coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful morning treat. You could also serve it with additional butter, warm syrup, or even a side of whipped cream for an indulgent touch!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your Christmas Morning Star Bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’re planning on keeping it longer, consider freezing individual slices, wrapping each tightly in plastic wrap, and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can simply reheat a slice in the toaster for a quick, warm treat anytime!
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your yeast is active by proofing it in warm milk; it should bubble and foam within minutes.
- Don’t skip the second rise; it profoundly affects the texture of your bread, making it light and airy.
- For an even more festive flavor, try mixing in some dried cranberries or chocolate chips into the filling!
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with flavors! For a nut-free version, swap the pecans for dried fruits or seeds. You can also infuse your bread with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, or glaze it with a citrus icing.
FAQ
How long does it take to make this bread?
From start to finish, including rising time, you should plan for about 3 hours.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
While you can substitute whole wheat flour, keep in mind that it will make the bread denser. Consider mixing half of each for the best results.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped, unbaked dough or baked bread—just ensure it’s wrapped properly to prevent freezer burn.
Baking this Christmas Morning Star Bread is sure to create memorable holiday moments. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some festive magic in the kitchen!
Christmas Morning Star Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add the brown butter, eggs, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and cinnamon into the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing well until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled (about 1-1.5 hours).
- While the dough rises, mix together the brown sugar, chopped pecans, and additional spices in a bowl.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the filling evenly on top.
- Cut the dough into equal strips and create a star shape by layering and twisting the pieces.
- Cover the shaped bread and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
- While the bread bakes, combine heavy cream and powdered sugar in a bowl to make a glaze.
- Let the bread cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze.
