APPLE CINNAMON PULL APART BREAD

Apple Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is a warm, comforting, and indulgent treat that combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, all nestled between soft, fluffy layers of dough. This pull-apart bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures in every bite. The dough is infused with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon, layered with spiced apples and a touch of brown sugar. Once baked, the bread pulls apart easily, revealing tender layers and a deliciously gooey apple filling. Serve it fresh out of the oven for a truly irresistible experience.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Pinch of salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is bubbly and frothy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine and then knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with the dough hook attachment to knead the dough for 3-4 minutes.
3. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Apple Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the apple filling. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir well to coat the apples. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples are softened and the mixture has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
5. Shape the Bread: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×16 inches. Brush the dough with the melted butter and then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the entire surface.
6. Add the Apple Filling: Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the dough. Cut the dough into 6-8 strips (width-wise) and then stack the strips on top of each other. Cut the stack into 6-8 squares.
7. Assemble the Bread: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and place the stacked dough squares inside, layering them evenly. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Serve: Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes, then drizzle with any remaining melted butter and serve warm.

Apple Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful dessert or snack that is as fun to eat as it is delicious. The combination of tender dough, spiced apples, and cinnamon sugar creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated, it’s sure to be a favorite!