Introduction

Cinnamon Star Bread is a delightful and impressive addition to your holiday menu. This pull-apart treat is soft and layered with cinnamon sugar, making it a perfect centerpiece for Christmas morning or any festive brunch. The combination of warm spices and sweet dough creates a comforting aroma that fills your home, inviting everyone to the table. Plus, it looks stunning, making it an exciting bake that’s surprisingly easy to master!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Star Bread

There are countless reasons to love this Cinnamon Star Bread. Here are just a few:

**Impressive Appearance**: It’s a show-stopper that will wow your guests.
**Easy to Make**: With our simple instructions, you’ll be able to create a bakery-worthy loaf at home.
**Perfect for Sharing**: This is a pull-apart bread, making it ideal for sharing at holiday gatherings.
**Versatile Flavor**: Enjoy it plain or with a delightful cream cheese spread.
**Kid-Friendly**: Kids will love both the taste and the fun of pulling apart the bread.
**Ideal for Breakfast**: Serve it warm for a cozy morning treat or as a dessert.
**Customizable**: Explore various Cinnamon Star Bread variations to suit your taste.
**Vegetarian-Friendly**: This recipe fits well within a vegetarian diet.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Star Bread

Gather these items:

2 cups all purpose flour, spooned & leveled (242 grams)
1/2 cup instant mashed potato flakes (42 grams)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (27 grams)
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup warm whole milk (at 115-120℉)
1 packet instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 egg

How to Make Cinnamon Star Bread Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix the flour, potato flakes, sugar, and salt together. Set aside.
Step 2: In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the warm milk and yeast, stirring to combine. Let it stand for 3 minutes to bloom. Add the flour mixture and butter. Mix on medium speed using a dough hook until smooth and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat both sides, and cover to rise for 1 hour.
Step 3: While the dough is rising, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside.
Step 4: On a floured surface, divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and shape them into balls. Roll one dough ball into a 10” round and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread ⅓ of the cinnamon sugar over it, leaving a ¼” border. Repeat with the second and third dough balls, layering them with the remaining cinnamon sugar.
Step 5: Roll out the last dough ball to a 10” circle and place it on top. Use a 3” round biscuit cutter to mark the center (do not press down). Cut the dough into 16 pieces, forming 8 twist pairs. Twist each pair in opposite directions and pinch the ends together. Cover loosely with plastic wrap while preheating the oven.
Step 6: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of the star bread. Bake for 15 to 19 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool for 10 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar or more cinnamon sugar. Serve warm.

Delicious Cinnamon Star Bread for Festive Mornings - Cinnamon Star Bread - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Star Bread

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
For a fluffier texture, use high-protein flour.
Feel free to experiment with fillings, like chocolate or nuts, for a unique twist.
This recipe is categorized under baking, so follow the baking method carefully.
Cover the dough while it rises to prevent it from drying out.

Best Ways to Serve Cinnamon Star Bread

Enjoy this delightful bread in several ways:

Serve it warm with a dollop of cream cheese for a rich breakfast treat.
Pair it with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
It makes a festive addition to holiday brunch spreads, perfect for sharing.

How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Star Bread

Store any leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method keeps the bread fluffy and delicious. It’s also great for meal prep during the holiday season!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Star Bread

What’s the secret to perfect Cinnamon Star Bread?

The secret lies in allowing the dough to rise properly, using fresh yeast, and not overbaking it. Following the Cinnamon Star Bread instructions closely will ensure your bread turns out fluffy and soft.

Can I make Cinnamon Star Bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance, let it rise in the fridge, and bake it fresh on the morning you plan to serve. This makes it an excellent choice for holiday breakfasts!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cinnamon Star Bread?

Common mistakes include not letting the dough rise enough or using cold ingredients. Always ensure your yeast is active and your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Variations of Cinnamon Star Bread You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

Try adding a cream cheese filling for a rich twist.
For a vegan option, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg and use plant-based milk and butter.
Add nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, for a unique flavor profile!

Delicious Cinnamon Star Bread for Festive Mornings - Cinnamon Star Bread - additional detail

For more baking tips, check out this helpful guide on baking techniques.

Additionally, you can learn about the health benefits of cinnamon here.