Name: Irresistible Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 800 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Warm Apple Cider; 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Try brown sugar for a richer taste.); 2 1/4 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (Instant yeast can be used.); 2 large Eggs (Room temperature is better.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Kosher or sea salt can be used.); 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Bread flour can be substituted.); 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted and can use dairy-free option.); 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon (Ceylon cinnamon enhances flavor.); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (Mascarpone or vegan cream cheese can work.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Imitation vanilla can serve as backup.); 1 tablespoon Apple Brandy (Optional, can replace with extra apple cider.); 2 cups Confectioners’ Sugar (Consider substitutes for less sweetness.)

As I curled up in my favorite chair, the unmistakable scent of apple cider and cinnamon wafted through the house, igniting cozy memories of autumn afternoons. This Apple Cider Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is my go-to recipe when I want to treat myself (and others) to a hearty homemade delight. With its ease of preparation and irresistibly shareable format, this fluffy masterpiece takes breakfast indulgence to a whole new level. Perfect for gatherings or simply to savor over coffee, it not only fills your home with warmth but also entices everyone to come to the table. Are you ready to transform your mornings with this comforting, seasonal bake? Let’s dive into the deliciousness together!

Why is this Apple Cider Bread special?

Comforting Flavors: The blend of apple cider and warm cinnamon evokes all the cozy vibes of autumn, making it a perfect treat for chilly mornings.
Effortlessly Shareable: Each pull-apart piece invites sharing, ensuring this bread becomes the star of your brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with variations—adding nuts or trying different extracts elevates this bread to fit any preference.
Easily Made Ahead: You can chill the dough overnight, saving you time in the morning while enhancing the flavors, making it the perfect time-saver.
Irresistible Aroma: Imagine the delightful scent wafting through your home, enticing everyone to gather around the table, ready to indulge. Don’t forget to check out Shrimp Pineapple Fried if you’re also looking for a quick meal to accompany your cozy ambience!

Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread Ingredients

For the Dough
Apple Cider – Adds moisture and a hint of apple flavor to the dough; apple juice can be a lighter substitute but won’t pack the same punch.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling; try brown sugar for a richer taste.
Active Dry Yeast – Helps the dough rise; instant yeast can be used with the same quantity for quicker prep.
Large Eggs – Contributes to the richness; using room temperature eggs will help them blend more smoothly.
Salt – Balances sweetness and manages yeast; kosher or sea salt can be used if preferred.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a chewier texture, you can substitute with bread flour.
Unsalted Butter – Imparts richness to the dough; switch to a dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
For the Filling
Ground Cinnamon – Brings warmth and spice; using Ceylon cinnamon enhances the aromatic flavor.
For the Icing
Cream Cheese – Adds a creamy texture to the icing; mascarpone or a vegan cream cheese works well for dairy-free versions.
Vanilla Extract – Boosts the flavor; imitation vanilla can serve as a backup if you’re in need.
Apple Brandy (optional) – Deepens the icing’s flavor; you can replace it with extra apple cider or simply omit it if necessary.
Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing; for a less sweet alternative, consider using powdered sugar substitutes.

Feel free to customize this Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread to make it your own, and let the delicious anticipation fill your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm apple cider, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes. Then, add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon salt, mixing thoroughly. Gradually add 4 cups all-purpose flour and ¼ cup melted unsalted butter, stirring until the dough is smooth and sticky.

Step 2: First Rise
Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rest in a warm place for 30 minutes, then perform a series of folds every 30 minutes for a total of 2 hours. You’ll notice the dough doubling in size and becoming elastic, perfect for forming your Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread.

Step 3: Chill
After the folding process, cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Aim for at least 12 hours, up to 72 hours, to develop rich flavors. This step makes the dough easier to handle while ensuring a tender crumb in your finished bread.

Step 4: Prepare Filling
In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon salt. This sweet spice blend is essential for creating that warm, comforting filling inside the Apple Cider Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 5: Shape the Bread
Once chilled, lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about ½ inch thick. Brush the surface with ½ cup melted butter, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top. Cut the dough into strips, stack them, and place the stacks into a greased Pullman pan, creating a layered effect.

Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the assembled dough with a cloth and let it rise in a warm area until it nearly doubles in size, about 45-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough is puffy and fills the pan almost to the top, setting the stage for your Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread to rise while baking.

Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, place your Pullman pan in the center and bake for 40-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the center; it should read 200°F (95°C) when perfectly baked and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Make Icing
While the bread bakes, prepare the icing by simmering ¼ cup apple cider and a pinch of salt in a saucepan until reduced by half. Remove from heat, then whisk in 4 ounces cream cheese, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and optional 1 tablespoon apple brandy until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups confectioners’ sugar until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 9: Glaze and Serve
Once the Apple Cider Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is out of the oven, let it cool slightly and pour half of the warm icing over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before pouring the remaining icing over to finish. Serve your delectable bread warm, inviting everyone to enjoy this delightful autumn treat!

What to Serve with Apple Cider Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread

Warm, sweet, and heavenly, this pull-apart bread makes breakfast or snacking a delightful experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like apples, pears, and berries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet bread.
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs bring a savory element that balances the sweetness of the pull-apart bread beautifully.
Maple Bacon: The smoky, salty taste of crispy bacon pairs perfectly, enhancing the comforting flavors of the cinnamon and apple.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Cozy up your experience with this creamy drink; the warm spices complement the bread’s flavors while providing a delightful morning boost.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on the side creates a deliciously indulgent dessert situation, especially when paired with the warm, gooey bread.
Cream Cheese Spread: A light spread adds a tangy richness that contrasts delightfully with the sweetness of the icing.
Apple Cider: Enjoy a glass of spiced apple cider for a cohesive autumn-themed meal, enhancing the apple notes in the bread.

Serving this Apple Cider Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread with these fantastic accompaniments will elevate your dining experience to new cozy heights!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread

Perfectly Chilled Dough: Chilling the dough overnight not only enhances flavor but makes it easier to handle when rolling out. Ensure it’s wrapped snugly!
Avoid Sticking: If your dough begins to stick while rolling, sprinkle extra flour on the surface or return it to the fridge for a few minutes to firm up.
Proper Yeast Activation: Use warm apple cider to activate the yeast; if it’s too hot, the yeast will die, leading to a dense bread.
Pans Matter: If using a standard loaf pan instead of a Pullman pan, remember to adjust the layering technique to ensure even baking.
Check for Doneness: Invest in an instant-read thermometer; your Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread should reach 200°F (95°C) in the center for that perfect fluffy texture.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain its softness and freshness.

Fridge: For longer storage, place the pull-apart bread in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just be aware that it will lose some of its fluffy texture.

Freezer: Freeze the bread by tightly wrapping it in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To bring your Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread back to life, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread Variations

Customize your Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread to make it even more delightful and tailored to your taste buds!

Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a satisfying crunch. They not only enhance the texture but also meld beautifully with the warm cinnamon.
Fruit Infusion: Toss in diced apples or pears between the dough layers for an extra fruity burst. This will bring a deliciously moist element to each bite, elevating the flavor profile.
Savory Twist: For a unique spin, incorporate cheese like sharp cheddar in between layers. The savory notes paired with sweet cider create an intriguing contrast that’s sure to surprise.
Pumpkin Spice Upgrade: Swap ground cinnamon for pumpkin spice to lean into fall flavors. A scoop of this spicy mixture will create a brand-new seasonal experience everyone will love.
Vegan Version: Substitute dairy-free butter and vegan cream cheese to make it a fully plant-based treat. You won’t sacrifice taste, still achieving a fluffy, flavorful bread!
Maple Icing: Experiment with a maple syrup glaze instead of traditional icing. It adds a rich, earthy sweetness that complements the apple cider beautifully.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle in cayenne pepper to the filling for a spicy contrast to the sweet, cinnamon flavors. This twist might just become your new favorite!
Flavored Icings: Try different extracts like almond or even hazelnut in the icing for a unique flavor twist. Each version adds an unexpected but delicious dimension to your pull-apart bread.

Feeling inspired? Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes like the Shrimp Pineapple Fried rice for pairing suggestions to complete your meal!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Apple Cider Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and chill it in the refrigerator up to 72 hours in advance, enhancing the flavor while saving time in the morning. After the initial rise, simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain its quality, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and shaping. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the bread and let it rise for about 45-60 minutes until puffy, then follow the baking instructions for a warm, delicious treat that’s just as comforting as if you made it fresh that day.

Apple Cider Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of apple cider is best for the dough?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use a fresh, unfiltered apple cider that is rich in apple taste. If you don’t have access to fresh cider, you can use apple juice as a substitute; however, keep in mind that it will not be quite as rich in flavor.

How should I store leftover pull-apart bread?
Store your Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, but the texture may become slightly denser. Just make sure to cover it well!

Can I freeze the pull-apart bread?
Certainly! To freeze your Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread, first let it cool completely. Then, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, the yeast might not have been activated properly. Be sure to use warm apple cider for the initial mixture (not too hot!), and allow the yeast to foam for at least 5-10 minutes. If the dough is too cold, let it sit in a warm spot—sometimes, placing it in a slightly warmed oven can help give it the boost it needs!

Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains common allergens like eggs, gluten (from wheat flour), and dairy (from butter and cream cheese). If you’re cooking for guests or family with dietary restrictions, consider using egg substitutes, gluten-free flour blends, or dairy-free alternatives to make adjustments that suit everyone.

What can I do if my icing is too runny or thick?
If your icing seems too runny, you can add a little more confectioners’ sugar to thicken it. Conversely, if it’s too thick, add a small splash of apple cider or milk until you reach the desired consistency. Adjust as needed to ensure it glazes beautifully over your Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread!