Spinach-Artichoke Pull-Apart Star Bread
An irresistible centerpiece for any dining table, this Spinach-Artichoke Pull-Apart Star Bread combines warm, buttery dough with a creamy spinach and artichoke filling.
Servings: 8 pieces
Calories: 250kcal
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour The foundation of your dough, offering a tender, chewy texture.
- 7 g instant yeast Ensures your bread rises perfectly.
- 1 tsp salt Enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Adds richness and moisture.
- 250 ml lukewarm milk Acts as a nurturing base for your dough.
- 1 tbsp sugar Helps activate the yeast.
- 1 large egg For egg wash, creates a glossy finish.
Filling Ingredients
- 200 g frozen spinach Thawed and squeezed dry.
- 100 g marinated artichoke hearts Chopped for tangy richness.
- 150 g feta cheese Crumbled for a creamy texture.
- 100 g cream cheese Softened to create a luscious filling.
- 1 clove garlic Grated for aromatic warmth.
- 1/2 whole lemon zest Brightens up the filling.
- to taste salt and pepper Enhancements for flavor.
- optional extra crumbled feta For added richness.
- optional black sesame or nigella seeds For a nutty crunch.
Instructions
Preparation of Dough
- Combine 500g of all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp of sugar, 1 tsp of salt, and 7g of instant yeast in a large mixing bowl.
- Gradually fold in 250ml of lukewarm milk and 2 tbsp of olive oil.
- Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until soft and elastic.
- Cover with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour.
Preparation of Filling
- In a separate bowl, mix 200g thawed spinach, 100g chopped marinated artichokes, 150g crumbled feta, 100g softened cream cheese, 1 grated garlic clove, and zest of half a lemon.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well to combine.
Shaping and Baking
- After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal balls and roll each into a 30cm circle on a lightly floured surface.
- Place one dough circle on a parchment-lined tray and spread the filling evenly across it, leaving a 1cm border.
- Place the second rolled dough circle on top and press lightly to secure.
- Using a small glass, create a guide in the center and cut the dough into 16 equal strips, twisting each pair and pinching the ends to form a star point.
- Brush the top lightly with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
Tips for success include ensuring milk is lukewarm, kneading the dough properly, allowing enough rising time, and avoiding excess moisture in the filling.