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Pesto Star Bread Recipe

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4.1 from 13 reviews

This Pesto Star Bread is an eye-catching and delicious pull-apart bread that features layers of soft dough filled with vibrant pesto and savory Parmesan cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or a centerpiece for any gathering, the bread is twisted into a star shape that looks as impressive as it tastes. Soft and buttery with a flavorful herbaceous kick, it pairs beautifully with fresh marinara or extra pesto for dipping.

Ingredients

Dough

  • 2 cups All purpose flour, spooned & leveled (242 grams)
  • ½ cup Instant mashed potato flakes (42 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar (27 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ¾ cup Warm whole milk (115-120°F)
  • 1 packet Instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
  • ¼ cup Unsalted butter, room temperature

Filling

  • ½ - ¾ cup Pesto (pre-made)
  • ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded

Topping

  • 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, instant mashed potato flakes, sugar, and salt. Set aside this dry mixture for later use.
  2. Activate Yeast and Make Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, stir together warm whole milk and instant yeast. Let it stand for 3 minutes to bloom the yeast. Add the flour mixture and unsalted butter. Using the dough hook attachment, mix on medium speed until a smooth and soft dough forms, approximately 5-7 minutes. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl (using about ½ tablespoon vegetable oil), turning the dough to coat both sides. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
  3. Divide and Roll Dough: On a floured surface, divide the risen dough into 4 equal portions. Roll the first ball into a thin 10-inch round. Place the rolled dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread one-third of the pesto evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, leaving a ¼-inch border around the edge.
  4. Layer Dough and Filling: Repeat rolling out the second dough ball to a 10-inch round and place on top of the first. Spread another one-third of the pesto and sprinkle another ¼ cup Parmesan cheese. Repeat once more with the third dough ball, layering pesto and cheese similarly.
  5. Add Final Dough Layer: Roll the last dough ball into a 10-inch circle and place it on top, completing the layered stack.
  6. Cut the Star Shape: Place a 3-inch biscuit cutter in the center of the dough stack as a guide, without pressing down. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 16 strips around the cutter to create 8 pairs of strips for twisting.
  7. Twist the Dough Strips: Remove the biscuit cutter. Take each pair of dough strips and twist them in opposite directions 2-3 times, then pinch the ends together with a bit of water to seal. Repeat until all 8 pairs are twisted. Cover loosely with plastic wrap while you preheat the oven.
  8. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of the star bread to help it develop a golden crust.
  9. Bake: Bake the star bread for 15-19 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
  10. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle additional fresh grated Parmesan, or serve alongside extra pesto or marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Ensure the milk is warm (115-120°F) to properly activate the yeast but not so hot as to kill it.
  • Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier kneading, or knead by hand for about 10 minutes until smooth.
  • The instant mashed potato flakes add softness and a tender crumb to the bread.
  • You can substitute homemade pesto or store-bought pesto depending on preference.
  • Be careful not to cut through the center biscuit cutter; it serves as a guide to keep an intact middle star.
  • Brush the bread with egg wash for a shiny, golden crust; you can skip this if allergic to eggs.
  • The bread is best eaten the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for 2 days and refreshed in a warm oven.

Find it online: https://simpleplatter.com/pesto-star-bread-recipe/