If you’ve been on the lookout for a cozy, irresistible treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, you’re going to adore this Pull-Apart Apple Bread Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of tender, flaky bread layered generously with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples that practically melt in your mouth. Imagine pulling apart soft, buttery bites of bread packed with juicy apples and cinnamon sugar, creating a delightful mess and endless smiles. Whether it’s for a lazy weekend breakfast or a special gathering, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a show-stopping centerpiece that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pull-Apart Apple Bread Recipe relies on simple pantry staples and fresh apples, each playing a crucial role in building delicious layers of flavor, texture, and richness. Every ingredient is chosen to complement one another and create that perfect balance of softness and spice.
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted: Provides structure and a soft crumb for the bread.
- 3/4 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup water: Activates the yeast and helps the dough rise beautifully.
- 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, cubed: Incorporates flakiness and a creamy mouthfeel.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough lightly for balance.
- 2 large eggs: Bind and enrich the dough for a tender bite.
- 1 Tbsp active dry yeast: The magical agent that makes the bread rise and fluff up.
- 8 Tbsp unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Used for brushing to create the pull-apart layers.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Lends a warm, fragrant depth to the dough and filling.
- 4 cups apples, peeled and grated: The star ingredient that infuses fresh, fruity sweetness.
- 2 tsp cinnamon: Brings a cozy, aromatic spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling to perfection.
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, cubed: Adds buttery richness directly into the apple filling.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, lightly packed: Gives a deep caramel note in the final topping.
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness in the topping.
- 2 Tbsp heavy whipping cream: Creates a luscious glaze for added indulgence.
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar: Perfect for dusting as a pretty finishing touch.
How to Make Pull-Apart Apple Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by activating the yeast in warm water and milk mixed with sugar, letting it bubble up for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. While the yeast wakes up, sift your flour to ensure a light, airy bread texture. Once ready, combine the yeast mixture with eggs, butter, vanilla extract, and the sifted flour. Knead this combination well until you have a smooth, elastic dough that springs back when pressed gently. This kneading process is incredibly satisfying and the foundation of soft, pull-apart bread.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
After kneading, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour or until it doubles in size. This resting period lets the yeast work its magic, infusing the dough with airiness and flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the dough rises, peel and grate your apples, then mix them with cinnamon, granulated sugar, and cubed butter. This filling is what turns this bread into a mouthwatering treat—with juicy apples melting into cinnamon and butter, creating a filling that’s both sweet and slightly tart.
Step 4: Assemble the Bread
Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread your apple filling evenly over the dough. Then, generously brush the top with melted unsalted butter. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log and cut it into equal slices. Stack those slices upright in a greased loaf pan, which creates the iconic pull-apart look when baked.
Step 5: Final Rise and Bake
Cover the loaf pan again and allow the dough to rise for a second time, about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for that pillowy texture. Then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant. The irresistible aroma filling your kitchen is a wonderful reward for all the prep!
Step 6: Make the Glaze and Finish
While the bread cools slightly, combine brown sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and cubed butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and pourable. Drizzle this sweet glaze over the warm bread and finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar. This glaze is the final flourish that elevates the bread into something truly special.
How to Serve Pull-Apart Apple Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top add a satisfying crunch that contrasts delightfully with the soft bread. A dusting of extra cinnamon or even a drizzle of caramel sauce turns this into a show-stopping dessert or breakfast.
Side Dishes
Serve slices alongside a cup of spiced chai or coffee for an ultra-comforting pairing. For a more indulgent brunch, offer creamy vanilla yogurt or ricotta cheese on the side—it complements the apples beautifully and amps up the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Pull the bread apart at the table to showcase its layered texture and encourage sharing. For a festive twist, dress it up with edible flowers or serve warm with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. It’s perfect for any gathering, from casual family mornings to celebratory brunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for 2-3 days and retains its softness beautifully if kept properly.
Freezing
This Pull-Apart Apple Bread Recipe freezes wonderfully. Slice the bread beforehand for convenience, wrap individual slices in plastic, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm individual slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until soft and fragrant. You can even pop frozen slices straight into the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to revive that just-baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I use another type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work wonderfully for balance, sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp add their own unique flavor. Just make sure to peel and grate them as the recipe suggests for optimal filling texture.
Do I need any special equipment for this Pull-Apart Apple Bread Recipe?
Nothing fancy is needed—just basic baking tools like a mixing bowl, rolling pin, loaf pan, and a grater for the apples. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, it can make kneading easier but it’s not mandatory.
How long can I keep this bread on the counter?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this bread stays fresh and delicious for 2 to 3 days at room temperature, making it great for quick breakfasts or snacks during the week.
Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?
Yes! This Pull-Apart Apple Bread Recipe guides you through basic baking steps, and the results are well worth the effort. Just take your time with kneading and rising, and you’ll end up with a stunning loaf.
Can I substitute the butter for a dairy-free alternative?
You can swap unsalted butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, but keep in mind it may subtly change the flavor and texture. It’s best to use a solid fat rather than liquid oil to maintain that tender bread crumb.
Final Thoughts
If you crave a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat that blends tender bread with sweet, spiced apples, this Pull-Apart Apple Bread Recipe is a must-try. It’s one of those special recipes that feels like a bit of homemade magic—comforting, delicious, and perfect to share with people you love. I can’t wait for you to make it, pull it apart, and enjoy every bite!
Print
Pull-Apart Apple Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 110 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pull-Apart Apple Bread is a delightful, soft, and flavorful treat perfect for sharing. It features a yeast dough enriched with butter and milk, layered with a sweet cinnamon apple filling, and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. The bread’s pull-apart texture makes it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 Tbsp active dry yeast
Filling Ingredients
- 8 Tbsp unsalted butter (1/2 cup)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups apples, peeled and grated
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Glaze Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Dough: Warm the milk and water to about 110°F (lukewarm). In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm liquid along with 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Then, add the sifted flour, cubed butter, and eggs. Mix and knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-6 minutes with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
- First Proofing: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: While the dough is rising, in a skillet over medium heat, melt 8 Tbsp butter. Add the grated apples, cinnamon, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, cubed butter, vanilla extract, and cook until the apples have softened and the mixture thickens slightly, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Shape the Bread: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12×16 inches. Spread the cooled apple filling evenly over the dough. Cut the dough into strips or squares suitable for layering or stacking.
- Assemble the Pull-Apart Bread: Layer the apple-filled dough pieces into a greased loaf pan in a shingled or stacked fashion to create a pull-apart effect. Cover the pan and let the dough rise again for about 30-40 minutes, until puffy.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pull-apart apple bread for 25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. Remove from oven and let cool slightly in the pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and heavy whipping cream until smooth and pourable.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm bread. Allow it to cool completely before pulling apart and serving.
Notes
- Make sure the apple filling is completely cool before spreading on the dough to prevent it from soaking into the dough excessively.
- You can substitute Granny Smith apples for a tarter flavor or use a mix of sweet and tart apples.
- Use room temperature butter and eggs for better dough texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- This bread can be gently reheated in the oven or microwave before serving to refresh texture and flavor.
