# Ingredients:
→ Dough
01 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
04 - 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
05 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Filling
08 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
10 - 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
→ Finishing
11 - 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
12 - Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
# Instructions:
01 - In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until a foamy layer has formed.
02 - Add melted butter, remaining sugar, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Blend until thoroughly mixed.
03 - Gradually add flour, mixing to create a soft dough. Knead the dough for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and allow to rise in a warm location until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
05 - In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until evenly blended.
06 - Punch down risen dough and separate into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 10-inch circle.
07 - Place one dough circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread one third of the filling across. Stack the second circle on top, add another third of filling, repeat with the third circle, and finish with the fourth circle, leaving the top plain.
08 - Position a small cup or cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) in the center. With a sharp knife, cut outward from the guide to create 16 equal strips. Twist pairs of strips away from each other twice and pinch ends together to form 8 star points.
09 - Loosely cover the shaped bread and leave to rise for 20 to 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.
10 - Brush bread surface with beaten egg. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until golden brown.
11 - Allow bread to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.
