Christmas Cinnamon Star Bread Recipe | Made for Gifting
Growing up, my mom did, (and still does) make cinnamon bread for her neighbors during the holidays. She had a specific baking day each year where she would whip up as many as 20 loaves of her famous sweet bread. I carry on her tradition, but slightly different with this yummy Christmas star bread recipe.
The aroma of sweet dough always filled our home during the holidays. And once the loaves were ready—sometimes still warm from the oven—we’d bundle them up and deliver them to neighbors who eagerly awaited their treat. It was our family’s unique way of spreading holiday cheer, a delightful change from the candies and cookies that often make the rounds during the season.
A Tradition Made My Own
For years, I followed her recipe to the letter, continuing the tradition with my own family. But as time went on, I decided to add my personal twist. Last year, I ventured into making Christmas Star Bread instead of the classic loaf.
The results?
Absolutely magical!
This pull-apart bread was a show-stopper at gatherings and earned rave reviews from everyone who tried it. It’s perfect for Christmas morning, a holiday brunch, or any special occasion.
I’m thrilled to share this cinnamon sugar star bread recipe with you—complete with step-by-step instructions to ensure success!
Why Christmas Star Bread?
Christmas Star Bread isn’t just beautiful—it’s also practical. Each pull-apart piece offers the perfect serving, with tender layers of dough filled with sweet cinnamon sugar. Its striking star shape makes it a centerpiece-worthy addition to your holiday table.
If you’re looking for a unique holiday gift for friends, family, or neighbors, Christmas Star Bread is always a hit. Don’t get me wrong—cookies and candies are wonderful, but I find that bread holds an extra special place in people’s hearts. It’s like sharing a piece of your home, your kitchen, and your love with others.
Christmas Star Bread
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 Tbsp active dry yeast
- 2 tsp sugar
- 5 tbsp butter room temp
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk only room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 4 –5 cups all-purpose flour divided
Sweet Filling Ingredients
- 6 tbsp softened butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar firmly packed
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- dash salt
Instructions
Making the Dough
- In a small saucepan, combine warm milk and water. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 105–115°F, ensuring even heating.
- Pour the mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle yeast and 2 tsp of sugar over it, stir, and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, egg yolk, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed using a dough hook until combined.
Gradually add more flour, ½ cup at a time, until a soft dough forms and pulls away from the bowl. The dough should feel slightly tacky but not sticky.
Knead for 5–10 minutes on low speed or by hand on a lightly floured work surface. Once smooth and elastic, transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1–2 hours). - Preparing the Filling
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Ensure the butter is softened enough to spread easily. - Assembling the Star Bread
Divide the dough into two equal halves—these will form your two stars. Next, cut each half into four equal pieces using a bench scraper or sharp knife. On a lightly floured work surface, roll each piece of dough into a 10-inch circle, creating the layers for your stars.
Place the first circle on a piece of parchment paper set on a prepared baking sheet. Spread a thin coat of butter over the top of the dough and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Repeat with the second circle, third circle, and sweet filling, topping with the final circle of dough (leave it plain). Trim the edges to form an even circle using a pizza cutter or biscuit cutter.
Use a cookie cutter or glass to mark the center. Cut 16 equal strips radiating outward. Twist pairs of strips away from each other twice, then pinch the ends together to form star points. - Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly brush the top of the dough with an egg wash (1 egg whisked with water) and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
Bake for 17–20 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F. If the top browns too quickly, turn oven down slightly.
Allow the bread to cool before serving. Store any leftover star bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for the next day.
Notes
Making Christmas Star Bread has become my way of keeping my mom’s tradition alive while adding my own flair. Maybe it’s Christmas morning or at a holiday brunch, this delicious recipe brings joy to everyone.
Now it’s your turn! I’d love to hear how your snowflake bread turns out. Did you try any variations, or will you stick to the classic cinnamon-sugar filling? Let me know in the comments or share your creations with me.
Happy baking, and may your holidays be as sweet as this bread!
