Description
The Savory Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Star Bread is a pull-apart yeast bread characterized by its stunning eight-pointed star shape. Unlike sweet versions that often feature cinnamon or chocolate, this savory rendition is packed with herbaceous basil pesto, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a blend of melting cheeses. Each “point” of the star is a twisted ribbon of dough that reveals layers of vibrant green and deep red filling. It serves as both a centerpiece and a functional appetizer, allowing guests to tear off a piece of flavored dough easily.
Ingredients
Dough
Ingredients
3 cups (360 g) all-purpose or bread flour
2¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk
1 large egg, room temperature
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Filling
Ingredients
½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (oil-packed, drained)
½ cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Freshly ground black pepper
Egg Wash
1 egg
1 tbsp milk or water
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Dough
In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
Add warm milk and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead 8–10 minutes (or 12–15 by hand) until smooth and elastic.
Add butter gradually, kneading until fully incorporated.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and rise 1–1½ hours, until doubled.
2️⃣ Assemble the Star
Punch down dough and divide into 4 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a 10-inch circle.
Place one circle on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Spread with pesto, sprinkle sun-dried tomatoes, cheeses, and pepper.
Repeat layering, leaving the top layer plain.
3️⃣ Shape the Star
Place a small cup in the center to mark a circle.
Cut dough into 16 equal strips.
Take two adjacent strips, twist away from each other twice, then pinch ends together.
Repeat around the circle to form an 8-point star.
Cover loosely and rise 30 minutes.
4️⃣ Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush gently with egg wash.
Bake 22–25 minutes, until golden brown.
Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
This savory star bread is perfect as a centerpiece for brunch or dinner. Serve warm with extra pesto or a drizzle of olive oil, and pair it with soups, salads, or roasted vegetables for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing meal. Leftovers can be reheated for a soft, aromatic treat.
- Prep Time: 25minutes
- Cook Time: 25minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1slice
- Calories: 220kcal