Delicious Cinnamon Star Bread Recipe Using Your Bread Machine

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Golden-brown cinnamon star bread drizzled with icing, showcasing a beautifully intricate design fresh from the oven.

What is Cinnamon Star Bread?

Cinnamon Star Bread is a beautiful sweet bread known for its eye-catching star shape and delightful flavor. It features fluffy layers of dough swirled with a mouthwatering cinnamon filling. This bread is perfect for holiday gatherings, weekend brunch, or as a special treat during any time of year. The best part is that it requires minimal effort when made with a bread machine, allowing you to impress effortlessly.

Ingredients You'll Need

To prepare this delicious bread, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 large egg

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

  
  

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

  
  

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 tablespoon milk

  
  

Preparing the Dough

1. Add Ingredients to the Bread Machine: Start by pouring warm milk into the bread machine pan. Add sugar, melted butter, and the egg next. Then, carefully add flour, salt, and yeast. Remember to add the yeast last to prevent it from activating too soon.

   
   

2. Select the Dough Setting: Close the lid and select the dough setting on your bread machine. This setting will mix and knead the dough perfectly, ensuring fluffy results.

   
   

3. Let the Dough Rise: After the dough cycle ends, remove it from the pan and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area until it doubles in size, typically about 1 hour.

   
   

Making the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough rises, prepare your cinnamon filling. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Set it aside to use later. This simple filling adds a rich flavor that beautifully complements the sweet bread.

Shaping the Bread

1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air. Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll out the first piece into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.

   
   

2. Layer the Filling: Spread one-fourth of the softened butter over this dough circle, then sprinkle it with one-fourth of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Repeat this layering process with the remaining pieces of dough, stacking them on top of one another.

   
   

3. Cut and Twist: Place a large plate or round object in the center of the stacked dough. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, make 16 equal cuts from the edge of the dough to the outer edge of the plate, making sure not to cut all the way through the center.

   
   

4. Form the Star Shape: Carefully twist each wedge away from the center. This creates a beautiful star shape while keeping the middle intact.

   
   

Intricately twisted cinnamon bread is prepared for baking, showcasing a beautiful star-like pattern on parchment paper.

Final Rise and Baking

1. Let it Rise Again: Transfer the shaped bread to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop further.

   
   

2. Preheat the Oven: While the bread is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

   
   

3. Brush with Egg Wash: Once risen, brush the top of the bread with the beaten egg mixed with milk. This helps achieve a lovely golden color during baking.

   
   

4. Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown. It should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating it is done.

   
   

   Enjoying Your Cinnamon Star Bread

Let your Cinnamon Star Bread cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This bread is best enjoyed warm and pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’d like, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness. Imagine serving this stunning centerpiece at your next gathering—it's bound to impress!

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise and texture. If you’re unsure, a quick test with warm water and sugar can show if it’s still active.

• Don’t Rush the Rising: Allow the dough sufficient time to rise for the best flavor and texture. A good rise contributes to a fluffy and soft bread.

• Experiment with Fillings: Get creative! Feel free to add ingredients such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for a unique twist. For example, adding walnuts can provide a satisfying crunch and a rich flavor.

  
  

Embrace the Joy of Baking

Making Cinnamon Star Bread using your bread machine adds a touch of sweetness and creativity to your home. This recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re baking for a family celebration or treating yourself on a cozy weekend, this delightful bread is sure to become a household favorite. So, gather your ingredients, powered by the magic of your bread machine, and watch as your kitchen fills with the delightful scent of freshly baked goodness!

Happy Baking!