Apple Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread – The Irresistible Sweet Bread Everyone Falls in Love With

Apple Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is the kind of recipe that instantly brings back warm memories and fills the house with the comforting aroma of butter, cinnamon, and baked apples. This stunning loaf is made from layers of soft, buttery dough filled with tender apples and cinnamon sugar, baked into a golden, pull-apart masterpiece where every piece melts in your mouth.

It’s not just bread — it’s an experience. The way the layers pull apart, the glaze dripping into every crevice, and the sweet-spiced flavor in every bite make this one of the most irresistible baked goods you’ll ever make.

Ingredients and Why Each One Matters

For the Dough

All-purpose flour (3 cups) — Forms the structure of the bread while keeping it soft and tender.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup) — Lightly sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast for a good rise.
Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp) — The leavening that creates light, fluffy layers.
Salt (1/2 tsp) — Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup) — Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
Whole milk (1/3 cup) — Contributes softness and richness.
Water (1/4 cup) — Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
Large eggs (2) — Provide structure, richness, and a tender crumb.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) — Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.

For the Filling

Apples, peeled and finely diced (2 medium) — Provide juicy sweetness and texture.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup) — Sweetens and caramelizes between the layers.
Ground cinnamon (2 tsp) — The warm spice that defines this bread.
Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup) — Helps the filling stick and keeps everything luscious.

For the Glaze

Powdered sugar (1 cup) — Creates a smooth, sweet drizzle.
Milk (2/3 tbsp) — Thins the glaze to the perfect pourable consistency.
Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp) — Adds extra aroma and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.

Step 2: Warm the Liquids

Heat the butter, milk, and water until warm (about 110°F / 43°C). Pour into the dry ingredients, then add eggs and vanilla. Mix until combined.

Step 3: Knead

Add remaining flour gradually until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled.

Step 5: Roll Out

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.

Step 6: Add Filling

Brush with melted butter. Mix sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle evenly, then scatter apples over the top.

Step 7: Cut and Stack

Slice into vertical strips, stack them, then cut into sections. Place upright in a greased baking dish.

Step 8: Second Rise & Bake

Cover and let rise 30 minutes. Bake 30–35 minutes until golden brown and baked through.

Step 9: Glaze

Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm bread before serving.

Why This Recipe Is So Loved

It’s soft, fluffy, buttery, and perfectly spiced.
The pull-apart design makes it fun and interactive.
It’s perfect for holidays, brunch, or special breakfasts.
The aroma alone makes people fall in love before the first bite.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pull-Apart Bread

Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
Don’t skip the second rise — it ensures fluffy layers.
Cover loosely with foil if browning too fast.
Serve warm for the ultimate gooey texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with coffee or tea.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Top with chopped nuts for crunch.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is more than just a recipe — it’s comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence all baked into one stunning loaf. With soft layers, sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and silky glaze, it’s impossible to resist.

If you want a dessert or brunch recipe that truly impresses while still being approachable and comforting, this is the one you’ll come back to again and again.