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–+ servings

Christmas Morning Star Bread

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A visually stunning and deliciously spiced bread perfect for Christmas morning gatherings, bringing joy and warmth to your holiday brunch.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the dough
  • 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
  • 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.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add the brown butter, eggs, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and cinnamon into the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
  3. Gradually add the flour, mixing well until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes until smooth.
  4. 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).
  5. While the dough rises, mix together the brown sugar, chopped pecans, and additional spices in a bowl.
Assembling the Bread
  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
  2. Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the filling evenly on top.
  3. Cut the dough into equal strips and create a star shape by layering and twisting the pieces.
  4. Cover the shaped bread and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
  3. While the bread bakes, combine heavy cream and powdered sugar in a bowl to make a glaze.
  4. Let the bread cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12g

Notes

For a festive presentation, serve the bread on a large platter, dusted with powdered sugar. Pair it with coffee or hot chocolate. To keep leftovers fresh, store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze individual slices.
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