chocolate star bread – recipesshubb

Chocolate Star Bread

(Soft, Pull-Apart Bread with a Beautiful Star Shape)

Chocolate Star Bread is as stunning as it is delicious. Made from a soft, lightly sweet yeast dough layered with rich chocolate filling, this bread is shaped into a gorgeous star that pulls apart into tender, chocolate-swirled strands. It looks bakery-worthy, yet it’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

Perfect for holidays, brunch, or special gatherings, chocolate star bread is meant to be shared. Set it in the center of the table, and watch it disappear piece by piece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beautiful star shape that impresses every time
Soft, fluffy bread with rich chocolate flavor
Perfect for sharing—no slicing required
Great for holidays and celebrations
Can be made ahead

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 1½–2 hours
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: About 3 hours
Oven Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Yield: 1 large star (8–10 servings)
Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

Dough

3½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
2 large eggs
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

Chocolate Filling

½ cup chocolate hazelnut spread or thick chocolate spread
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Egg Wash

1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon milk

Optional Garnish

Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Add the eggs, butter, salt, and half of the flour. Mix until combined, then gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.

Knead by hand or with a mixer for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the chocolate spread, melted butter, cocoa powder, and sugar until smooth and spreadable.

Step 4: Divide and Roll

Punch down the dough and divide it into four equal portions. Roll each piece into a 10-inch circle.

Place the first circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread one-third of the chocolate filling evenly over it, leaving a small border around the edge.

Repeat layering dough and filling, finishing with a plain dough circle on top.

Step 5: Shape the Star

Place a small cup in the center of the dough and lightly press to mark the center. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 16 equal strips, stopping at the center.

Take two adjacent strips and twist them away from each other twice, then pinch the ends together. Repeat all the way around to form a star.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover loosely and let the shaped bread rest for 20–30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the bread gently with egg wash.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and baked through.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Star Bread

Use soft, spreadable filling to avoid tearing the dough.
Roll dough evenly so the star bakes uniformly.
Don’t overfill—thin layers work best.
Seal twists well to keep the shape intact.
Tent loosely with foil if browning too quickly.

Variations

Cinnamon Sugar Star: Replace chocolate with cinnamon, sugar, and butter.
Nutella & Orange: Add orange zest to the filling.
White Chocolate: Use white chocolate spread.
Holiday Version: Add crushed candy canes to the filling.
Mini Stars: Divide dough to make smaller individual stars.

Storage

Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked bread for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate
Perfect for Christmas morning or brunch
Add fresh berries for a festive plate
Great as a centerpiece pastry

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Star Bread is the kind of bake that turns an ordinary day into a celebration. With its soft, pillowy dough and rich chocolate layers, it’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at. While the shape may seem impressive, the process is simple and rewarding.