Pull-Apart Apple Cinnamon Bread

There’s something magical about the scent of apples and cinnamon drifting through the house—especially when it comes from a soft, golden loaf that’s meant to be pulled apart and shared. This Apple Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing centerpiece that fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia.

Drawing inspiration from classic pull-apart breads, this version celebrates the flavors of the season with tender apple pieces and a swirl of buttery cinnamon sugar. It’s perfect for crisp mornings, weekend brunches, or as an afternoon treat with tea or coffee. Every bite is soft, sweet, and filled with autumn comfort—and it looks as inviting as it tastes.

Serve it fresh from the oven for breakfast, top it with vanilla ice cream for dessert, or pair it with savory bites on a brunch spread. However you enjoy it, this loaf is sure to disappear fast.

🍎 Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (plus ¼ cup for filling)

• ⅓ cup whole milk

• ¼ cup water

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 medium apples, peeled and finely chopped

For the Filling:

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tbsp milk

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

👩‍🍳 Directions

1. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour with the sugar, yeast, and salt. Warm the butter, milk, and water together to about 110°F (43°C). Add the mixture to the dry ingredients, then stir in the eggs and vanilla. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

2. Let It Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

3. Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar together. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

4. Assemble the Loaf
Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a large rectangle. Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar and chopped apples. Cut into strips, stack them, and slice the stack into smaller sections. Arrange the pieces upright in the baking dish. Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.

5. Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and fragrant. While it bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze.

6. Finish and Enjoy
Drizzle the glaze over the warm bread and let it soak in slightly before serving. Each pull-apart piece is soft, buttery, and bursting with cinnamon-apple goodness—an irresistible treat for any occasion.