Delicious Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread Recipe for Fall Baking

A cozy kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods might be my favorite place on earth. And nothing captures that feeling quite like Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread. Imagine pulling apart soft, fluffy pieces of bread infused with the warm sweetness of apple cider and the nostalgic spice of cinnamon. As you tear into this glorious creation, the buttery layers seem to whisper promises of joy and warmth, making it impossible to resist.

Remember those crisp autumn afternoons when the leaves turn to shades of gold and burgundy? That’s when I first discovered the joy of baking this Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering, enjoying it as an afternoon treat, or gifting it to a friend, every bite holds a story waiting to be savored. It’s a delightful taste of fall, served right from your own kitchen, and I promise, your taste buds will dance with delight!

Ingredients for Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread:

– ½ cup apple cider – Look for a pure apple cider that captures the essence of fall.
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar – This sweetens the dough beautifully and helps with yeast activation.
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast – Makes the bread rise and gives it a delightful texture.
– 3 large eggs at room temperature – Adds richness and structure to the dough.
– 1 ½ teaspoons salt – Enhances all the flavors in the bread.
– 3 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – The foundation for a fluffy pull-apart bread.
– 8 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature – Essential for that soft texture and buttery taste.
– ¾ cup granulated sugar – For the delicious cinnamon filling.
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – Infuses the bread with warm spice notes.
– Pinch salt – A little bit goes a long way in elevating flavors.
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Helps bind the filling ingredients and adds moisture.
– ½ cup apple cider – For the icing that drizzles decadently on top.
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese at room temperature – Adds a creamy texture to the icing.
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter at room temperature – Softens the icing and adds creaminess.
– Pinch salt – Cuts the sweetness for a balanced flavor.
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness and rounds out flavors.
– 1 tablespoon apple brandy (optional) – Adds a sophisticated depth of flavor.
– 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar – To create a sweet, glossy icing.

How to Make Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the apple cider, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about five minutes until the yeast is dissolved and starting to bubble.

Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the eggs and salt to the yeast mixture, mixing on low speed until combined. Gradually add the flour, ensuring everything is well incorporated, then add the butter piece by piece, mixing until fully combined.

Step 3: Knead the Dough
Increase the mixer speed to medium, beating the dough for about one minute until it’s smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Fold and Refrigerate
Gently fold the dough over itself several times every 30 minutes for a total rise time of 2 hours. After the final fold, cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate the dough overnight or up to 72 hours.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling
While waiting for the bread to proof, mix together the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl for the filling. The intoxicating aroma will have you dreaming of sugar-spiced bread!

Step 6: Shape the Bread
After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Roll the dough into a large rectangle and brush with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the surface. Cut the dough into strips and stack them vertically in a greased Pullman pan.

Finally, allow the pan to rest in a warm spot until the bread has nearly doubled in size, then bake for 40-50 minutes until golden brown with an internal temperature of 200°F (95°C).

Once baked, you can drizzle it with a beautiful icing made from reduced apple cider, cream cheese, and confectioners’ sugar. Let it cool slightly before serving and enjoy the joy each pull of bread brings—it’s simply the best treat around!

Perfecting Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread Cooking Process

Begin by preparing the dough followed by its first rise. While the dough is resting, mix the cinnamon-sugar filling. Next, form the dough and let it undergo its final rise before baking to achieve that perfectly fluffy texture.

Add Your Touch to Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread

Consider swapping apple cider with apple juice for a sweeter twist. You could also add chopped nuts for crunch or dried fruits like cranberries to introduce a splash of flavor and color to your bread.

Storing & Reheating Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread

To store, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat individual pieces in the microwave for a few seconds or warm in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

Using room temperature eggs helps the dough mix and rise evenly, leading to a fluffier texture. Always measure your flour properly; too much can lead to a dense loaf. Don’t skip the overnight refrigeration; it develops flavors and improves texture.

There was a Sunday brunch where my friends raved so much about this Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread that they practically fought over the last piece. It became the star of the show, and I couldn’t stop smiling as they savored it!

FAQs About Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread

What is Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread?

Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful, soft bread infused with the delicious flavor of apple cider. This unique recipe involves a special dough technique that creates tender layers, perfect for tearing apart and enjoying. The bread is often swirled with a cinnamon-sugar filling, which adds warmth and sweetness, making it ideal for fall gatherings or holiday breakfasts. The combination of apple cider and buttery layers not only tastes heavenly but also fills your home with the irresistible scent of autumn.

How can I customize my Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread?

Customization is one of the best parts of making Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread! You can easily swap the apple cider for apple juice for a sweeter flavor. Adding ingredients like chopped nuts or dried fruits such as cranberries can introduce delightful textures and tastes. Feel free to experiment with spices too; a hint of nutmeg or cloves can elevate the flavors even more. Each variation will give your bread its own unique twist!

How long does it take to make Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread?

Making Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread is a rewarding endeavor, but it does require some time for the dough to rise. The total preparation and baking time is approximately 2 to 3 hours, including the resting and rising periods. However, plan for an overnight refrigeration to enhance flavors and texture resulting in a more refined final product. Patience is key, but the delicious outcome will be worth the wait!

Can I make Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 72 hours in advance by refrigerating it after the initial rise. The bread can also be baked ahead of time. Once cooled, store it tightly wrapped in plastic to keep it fresh. Reheating individual pieces in the microwave or oven restores its delightful warmth, making it just as scrumptious as when it was first baked. It’s perfect for those busy mornings or surprise guests!

Conclusion for Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread

Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread is a delicious and visually stunning addition to any meal. Its layers offer a warm, comforting experience that’s perfect for sharing, making it ideal for gatherings. With simple customization options and the ability to prepare in advance, this recipe fits beautifully into busy lifestyles. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or a bit later, Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread is sure to impress family and friends alike with its delightful flavors.

Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread

This Apple Cider Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful and fluffy treat infused with apple cider, perfect for fall baking.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Proofing Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 25 minutes mins

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 210

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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• ½ cup apple cider
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 large eggs at room temperature
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 3 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour [444 g]
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar [150 g]
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• ½ cup apple cider
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter at room temperature
• Pinch salt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon apple brandy optional
• 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar [180 g]

Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Pullman pan
• Pastry brush
• parchment paper

Method

 

1. Grease a large bowl and set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle, combine the apple cider, granulated sugar, and yeast, and let sit until the yeast has dissolved, about 5 minutes. Add the eggs and salt and mix on low until well combined.
2. Add the flour, mixing on low speed until incorporated, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the butter, one piece at a time, mixing until completely incorporated after each addition.
3. Increase the speed to medium and beat the butter into the dough until all the little butter pieces are incorporated, about 1 minute. Transfer the dough to the prepared bowl.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 30 minutes. Remove the plastic wrap and gently pull the dough up and fold it over itself. Give the bowl a quarter turn and fold the dough over again. Repeat six to eight more times.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes. Repeat the folding process three more times every 30 minutes for a total rise time of 2 hours.
6. Tightly cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or up to 72 hours.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the filling.
8. Grease and line a 9 by 4 by 4 in Pullman pan with a parchment sling. Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into a 20 by 12 in rectangle.
9. Spread the melted butter evenly over the dough with a pastry brush. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the dough and press it gently into the dough with your hands.
10. Cut the dough crosswise into five strips (about 12 by 4 in), then stack the rectangles on top of each other. Slice the stack into six equal strips about 4 by 2 in.
11. Fit these layered strips into the prepared loaf pan, cut edges up and side by side. Sprinkle any leftover cinnamon-sugar over the top.
12. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until almost doubled in size, 45 to 60 minutes.
13. Preheat the oven to 350F and place a sheet pan on a lower rack to catch drips.
14. Bake the bread until the top is golden brown, 40 to 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 200F. Check halfway through and cover with foil if browning too quickly.
15. While the bread is baking, reduce the apple cider and salt in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until it reduces to ¼ cup, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and apple brandy if using, until smooth.
16. Slowly whisk in the confectioners’ sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
17. Once baked, pour half of the icing over the bread immediately and let sit for 15 minutes. Remove the loaf from the pan using the sling and drizzle the remaining icing over it. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Using room temperature eggs helps the dough mix and rise evenly, leading to a fluffier texture. Always measure your flour properly; too much can lead to a dense loaf. Don’t skip the overnight refrigeration; it develops flavors and improves texture.

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