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Spinach-Artichoke Pull-Apart Star Bread

A visually stunning pull-apart bread filled with creamy spinach, artichokes, and cheeses, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Cheesy Bread, Party Appetizer, Pull-Apart Bread, Spinach Artichoke Bread, Star Bread
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 500 g all-purpose flour Tender, white flour forms the soft and airy base.
  • 7 g instant yeast Key to a fluffy texture.
  • 1 tsp salt Enhances flavor.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Adds moisture to the dough.
  • 250 ml lukewarm milk Provides warmth for the yeast.
  • 1 tbsp sugar Feeds the yeast.
  • 1 each egg (for egg wash) Gives the crust a glossy finish.

For the Filling

  • 200 g frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry Adds a nutritious punch.
  • 100 g marinated artichoke hearts, chopped Brightens the filling.
  • 150 g feta cheese, crumbled Richly salty flavor.
  • 100 g cream cheese, softened Binds the filling.
  • 1 clove garlic, grated Infuses warmth.
  • 1/2 each lemon, zested Brightens filling.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for flavor.
  • to taste extra crumbled feta (optional)
  • to taste black sesame or nigella seeds (optional) Adds elegance.

Instructions

Make the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
  • Add the lukewarm milk and drizzle in the olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.

Prepare the Filling

  • In a medium bowl, combine the thawed spinach, artichokes, feta, cream cheese, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Star

  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into two equal balls.
  • Roll each ball into a 30cm circle and place one circle on a parchment-lined tray, spreading the filling over it, leaving a 1cm border.
  • Lay the second dough circle on top and gently press down to seal.

Cut & Twist

  • Using a small glass as a guide, cut the dough into 16 equal strips.
  • Twist each pair of strips away from each other twice before pinching the ends together.

Brush & Bake

  • Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle seeds if using.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes, until golden.

Cool & Serve

  • Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

Make sure to let the dough rise properly for the best texture. Feel free to add herbs or spices to the filling for more flavor.