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
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3 cups (360 g) all-purpose or bread flour
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2¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
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2 tbsp sugar
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1 tsp salt
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¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk
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1 large egg, room temperature
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3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Filling
Ingredients
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½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
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½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (oil-packed, drained)
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½ cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
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¼ cup grated Parmesan
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Freshly ground black pepper
Egg Wash
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1 egg
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1 tbsp milk or water
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Dough
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In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
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Add warm milk and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
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Knead 8–10 minutes (or 12–15 by hand) until smooth and elastic.
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Add butter gradually, kneading until fully incorporated.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and rise 1–1½ hours, until doubled.
2️⃣ Assemble the Star
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Punch down dough and divide into 4 equal pieces.
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Roll each piece into a 10-inch circle.
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Place one circle on parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Spread with pesto, sprinkle sun-dried tomatoes, cheeses, and pepper.
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Repeat layering, leaving the top layer plain.
3️⃣ Shape the Star
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Place a small cup in the center to mark a circle.
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Cut dough into 16 equal strips.
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Take two adjacent strips, twist away from each other twice, then pinch ends together.
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Repeat around the circle to form an 8-point star.
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Cover loosely and rise 30 minutes.
4️⃣ Bake
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Brush gently with egg wash.
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Bake 22–25 minutes, until golden brown.
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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