Stunning Raspberry Star Bread

This festive raspberry star bread transforms a simple yeast dough into a stunning centerpiece that tastes as beautiful as it looks. The delicate layers of soft bread alternate with sweet-tart raspberry jam for a treat that's perfect for special brunches or holiday gatherings.

I first made this star bread for a Christmas morning breakfast and watched my family's eyes widen as I placed it on the table. The collective "wow" moment made all the careful twisting worth it, and now it's become our tradition for any celebration worth marking.

Ingredients

• Dried instant yeast: Activates the dough and creates that perfect pillowy texture
• Milk: Provides moisture and tenderness to the bread structure
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that melt in your mouth quality
• Strong white bread flour: Gives structure thanks to its higher protein content
• Plain flour: Balances the texture for the perfect chew
• Caster sugar: Sweetens the dough subtly without overwhelming the filling
• Salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness
• Egg yolks: Enrich the dough for a brioche like quality
• Raspberry jam: Delivers bright fruity flavor in every bite
• Beaten egg: Creates that gorgeous golden brown exterior
• Icing sugar: Adds a snow like finish that elevates the presentation

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the yeast mixture:

Heat milk and butter until just lukewarm never hot as excessive heat will kill the yeast. After the butter melts completely stir in the yeast and let it sit until slightly foamy which confirms your yeast is alive and active.

Mix the dough:

Combine flours sugar and salt in your mixer bowl before adding the egg yolks and yeast mixture. Start mixing slowly to incorporate ingredients before increasing to medium speed. Watch for the dough to become smooth and elastic with a slight tackiness but not stickiness.

First rise:

Place the dough in an oiled bowl turning to coat all surfaces which prevents drying. Cover and allow to rise until doubled which develops flavor and texture. For deeper flavor you can refrigerate overnight at this stage.

Shape the base layers:

Divide dough into four equal pieces using a scale if available for precision. Roll each piece into circles of equal thickness approximately 30cm in diameter. Use a dinner plate as a guide to trim excess dough creating perfectly matched circles.

Layer and fill:

Place the first circle on your prepared baking sheet and spread with raspberry jam leaving a small border around the edge. Continue layering dough and jam remembering the top layer remains plain. Gently press layers together at the edges to seal.

Create the star pattern:

Place a small bowl in the center to mark your cutting boundary. Cut sixteen equal strips working in halves for accuracy. Twist each pair of strips away from each other twice before pinching the ends together. The twisting action reveals the beautiful jam layers.

Second rise:

Allow the shaped bread to rest covered which relaxes the gluten and ensures a tender final texture. This brief rise also helps the bread achieve its final volume before baking.

Bake to perfection:

Brush with egg wash for that professional shine and bake until the bread is deeply golden. Monitor carefully during the last few minutes as the sugar content can cause quick browning.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is watching the transformation during baking. There is something magical about seeing the twisted dough puff up and turn golden while the raspberry jam bubbles slightly creating little jewel toned pockets throughout the star. It reminds me of the first time I made it with my daughter who now insists on being the official "twister" whenever we bake it.

Filling Variations

While raspberry jam creates a classic flavor profile this star bread welcomes countless variations. Try chocolate hazelnut spread for a decadent treat that children especially adore. Lemon curd offers a bright citrusy alternative perfect for spring gatherings. Cinnamon sugar mixed with a touch of butter creates a simple yet irresistible filling reminiscent of cinnamon rolls. For savory versions consider pesto with grated parmesan or sun dried tomato spread which make excellent appetizers for dinner parties.

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Storage and Reheating

This star bread stays fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. For longer storage refrigerate for up to five days though the texture may become slightly firmer. To reheat place in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or until just warmed through. Alternatively microwave individual portions for 15 to 20 seconds. The bread also freezes beautifully after baking simply wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Troubleshooting Tips

Achieving the perfect star bread might take practice but even imperfect attempts taste delicious. If your dough feels too sticky add flour one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a workable consistency. Conversely if it seems too dry add milk by the teaspoon. For cleaner cuts chill the layered dough for 15 minutes before cutting which firms up the jam. If some jam leaks during baking do not worry this caramelizes into delicious crispy bits that many consider the best part.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different fillings instead of raspberry jam?

Absolutely! While raspberry jam creates a wonderful flavor contrast, you can substitute with other fruit preserves, chocolate spread, cinnamon sugar, or even a savory filling like pesto or cheese spread for a different twist.

→ Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. This slow fermentation actually enhances the flavor. Just bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping.

→ Why did my star bread lose its shape during baking?

This could happen if the dough was too warm when shaped or if the twists weren't sealed properly. Make sure to pinch the ends firmly together and allow the shaped bread to rest before baking to help it maintain its structure.

→ How do I store leftover star bread?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can reheat individual portions briefly in the microwave or oven to restore softness. For longer storage, freeze for up to a month and thaw at room temperature.

→ Can I make this without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand instead of using a stand mixer. It will take about 8-10 minutes of hand kneading to achieve the same smooth, elastic texture that develops in the stand mixer.

→ What's the best way to ensure even-sized dough circles?

After dividing the dough into four equal portions, weigh each piece to ensure they're the same size. When rolling out, use a dinner plate as a template to cut perfect circles. This ensures even layers and a symmetrical final appearance.