Description
The Braided Pesto Star Bread is a pull-apart yeast bread characterized by its unique star-shaped geometry and layered interior. Unlike a traditional loaf that is sliced with a knife, this bread is designed to be shared by pulling individual “points” or rays from the center. Each of these points is a multilayered swirl of dough and pesto, offering a perfect ratio of soft crust to savory filling in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg (optional, for richer dough)
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil (optional for extra moisture)
For finishing:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Extra Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Make the dough
In a bowl, mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm milk, water, olive oil, and egg. Knead until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes). - Let it rise
Cover and let the dough rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. - Divide & roll
Punch down dough and divide into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a circle (about 9–10 inches). - Layer with pesto
Place one circle on baking paper. Spread pesto and sprinkle Parmesan. Repeat layering for all circles, finishing with the top layer plain. - Shape the star
Place a small cup in the center as a guide. Cut dough into 16 equal strips from the center outward (leaving the center intact). Twist two strips away from each other and pinch ends together to form star points. Repeat all around. - Second rise
Cover lightly and let rest for 20–30 minutes. - Bake
Brush with egg wash and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. - Serve
Let cool slightly and serve warm.
Notes
A beautiful pull-apart bread with layers of fragrant pesto—perfect for sharing at the table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: ~260 kcal
Keywords: Savory Star Bread Recipe, Pesto Pull Apart Bread, Braided Pesto Loaf, Italian Star Bread, Pesto Snowflake Bread