Star Shaped Garlic Bread

A festive, pull-apart bread shaped like a star, filled with aromatic garlic butter, herbs, and cheese—perfect for holiday gatherings.

I first made this bread during the holidays and it was a huge hit with family and friends, perfect for sharing and dipping.

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.

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This recipe is a beloved family favorite, often enjoyed during holiday meals as everyone gathers around to pull apart the bread together.

Preparation Time

25 minutes plus 1 hour 45 minutes including rising time

Serving Suggestions

Pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes or as an appetizer for holiday parties.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 340 Calories, 16 g Total Fat, 40 g Carbohydrates, 9 g Protein

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This star shaped garlic bread adds a festive and flavorful touch to any meal, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I shape the bread into a star?

After layering the dough and garlic butter, place a small cup in the center, cut the dough into strips radiating out, then twist pairs of strips away from each other and pinch ends to form points.

→ What type of cheese is best for this bread?

Grated Parmesan cheese enhances the garlic butter filling with a sharp, savory flavor that melts beautifully during baking.

→ Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layered dough and refrigerate before the final rise. Bake directly when ready for convenience.

→ What is the purpose of the final rise before baking?

The final rise lets the twisted dough relax and expand, ensuring a light, fluffy texture and well-defined star shape once baked.

→ Are there any suggested accompaniments?

This bread pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce, or any savory dip to complement the garlic and herb flavors.