Name: Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3-1/4 to 3-3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 packet Fleischmann's® RapidRise TM Yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup milk (whole, 2%, 1% or skim); 1/4 cup water; 1/4 cup butter or margarine; 1 egg; 1 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon Spice Islands® Ground Saigon Cinnamon; 1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted; 3 oz cream cheese, softened; 6 tablespoons butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons half and half (milk can also be used); 2 cups powdered sugar; Optional pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The first time I encountered Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread was during a crisp autumn morning when the leaves were turning shades of gold and crimson. The smell of warm cinnamon wafted through the house as my grandmother prepared her special recipe. It became a cherished ritual, gathering around the kitchen table, pulling apart those sweet, fluffy rolls, and sharing laughter and stories. Each piece was a little treasure, coated in a sugary glaze, making me feel warm and content. Now, every time I bake this Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread, it brings back those sweet memories—a reminder of the love that goes into every bite.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
3g g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
8g g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Blender, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

The Beauty of This Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread

It’s Perfect for Sharing

What I love most about Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread is how incredibly shareable it is. Friends and family can gather around, each pulling apart their own piece, creating a warm, communal atmosphere. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience you can share with loved ones.

Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s something about the combination of soft dough, sweet cinnamon, and a drizzle of glaze that wraps you in a comforting embrace. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, and who doesn’t need that from time to time?

Flexible for Any Occasion

This recipe is adaptable. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a fun brunch, or a delightful dessert, Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread fits the bill perfectly. You can serve it during the holidays, special occasions, or even as a treat for yourself on a relaxing weekend.

Easy to Make

Don’t be intimidated by the process! This bread is surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools, you can whip up a batch that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.

Endless Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basic recipe, feel free to experiment! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to the filling. It’s all about making it your own and finding what you love.

Not Just Tasty, But Beautiful

The presentation of Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread is stunning. As you pull apart the rolls, the layers of dough and cinnamon sugar reveal themselves beautifully. It’s a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the taste buds.

What You’ll Need for Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread

Gathering the right ingredients is a crucial step in any recipe, especially for a delightful dish like Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread. Each ingredient plays a significant role in achieving that fluffy texture and sweet flavor. The key players include all-purpose flour, which serves as the base, and yeast, which makes the bread rise. We’ll also be using butter for richness and cinnamon to bring that warm spice to the forefront. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors that are simply irresistible.

3-1/4 to 3-3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of our bread, this will provide structure and fluffiness.
1/4 cup sugar: Adds sweetness to our dough.
1 packet Fleischmann’s® RapidRise TM Yeast: The key to making our bread rise beautifully.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough.
3/4 cup milk: Whole, 2%, 1%, or skim—this adds moisture to our dough.
1/4 cup water: Helps to activate the yeast.
1/4 cup butter or margarine: Adds richness and flavor.
1 egg: Provides structure and moisture.
1 cup sugar: This will be mixed for the filling and gives that decadent sweetness.
1 tablespoon Spice Islands® Ground Saigon Cinnamon: The star of our dish, bringing that warm, aromatic flavor.
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted: For dipping the dough pieces, adding an irresistible richness.
3 oz cream cheese, softened: For the glaze, adding creaminess and a slight tang.
6 tablespoons butter, softened: Also part of our glaze to enhance richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For a fragrant touch in the glaze.
3 tablespoons half and half: This can add a creamy consistency to the glaze.
2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetness for our glaze.
Optional: pinch of salt for balance.

Preparation Steps for Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread

Getting ready to make Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread should feel like a fun adventure in your kitchen! The aroma of baking bread is something truly magical. Follow along as we create this delicious treat step by step. Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each part of the process!

Start by combining 2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, yeast, and salt in a large mixer bowl. Stir until everything is blended nicely. It’s important to mix them well so that the yeast can activate properly. You’re laying the foundation for our dough.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk, water, and butter. Microwave this mixture on HIGH in increments of 15 seconds until it’s very warm but not hot to the touch (between 120° to 130°F). The butter won’t fully melt, which is okay. This warmth activates the yeast and helps our bread rise beautifully.
Add the warm mixture to the flour mixture along with 1 egg. Beat this mix at medium speed using an electric mixer for about 2 minutes, scraping the bowl occasionally. This helps to incorporate the ingredients thoroughly.
Next, add another 1 cup of flour to the mixture. Increase the mixer speed to high and beat for another 2 minutes, scraping the bowl periodically. The dough should start to come together nicely, becoming more cohesive.
Now, stir in just enough of the remaining flour until the dough forms a ball. It should be smooth and not too sticky. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 6 to 8 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back when lightly pressed with two fingers.
Cover the kneaded dough with a towel and let it rest for around 10 minutes. This gives the gluten a chance to relax, making it easier to shape later.
While the dough is resting, prepare your filling by mixing 1 cup of sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This will create that sweet, spicy mixture that makes this bread so irresistible!
After resting, cut the dough into 36 pieces. Dip each piece into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
Arrange the coated pieces in a fluted tube pan that has been generously sprayed with cooking spray. Don’t worry about perfection; it will look beautiful once it bakes!
If you have any remaining butter and sugar mixture, drizzle it over the rolls in the pan. Cover it with a towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which should take about 45 minutes.
Once doubled, preheat your oven to 375ºF. Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and your kitchen smells amazing!
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate. It’s crucial to let it cool slightly to maintain its shape.
For the glaze, beat the softened cream cheese and butter with a mixer until creamy. Gradually stir in the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined. If you want a thinner consistency, add additional milk one tablespoon at a time. For a thicker glaze, just add more powdered sugar.
Finally, drizzle the glaze over the warm bread or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy this Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread with family and friends.

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t rush the rising process: Allowing the dough to rise properly is key for fluffy bread. Be patient!
Temperature matters: Make sure the milk mixture is warm, but not hot. Too high a temperature can kill the yeast.
Use fresh yeast: Ensure your yeast is within its expiration date for the best rise.
Knead until elastic: The dough should feel smooth and springy by the end of kneading.

Recipe Variations about Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread

Exploring variations of Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread can be a delightful way to discover new flavors and textures. Here are some ideas that might inspire you!

Stuff it with fruit: Add chopped apples or pears with your cinnamon sugar mixture for a fruity twist.
Nuts galore: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch.
Chocolate lovers unite: Feel free to add chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent treat.
Different spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it suitable for gluten-intolerant friends.
Holiday flair: Use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal variant.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread, the possibilities are endless! Here are some suggestions that can elevate your experience:

Perfect for brunch: Serve warm alongside fresh fruit and coffee for a delightful brunch spread.
Holiday gatherings: This bread is a showstopper at events like Thanksgiving or Christmas, making it a delicious centerpiece.
Pair with beverages: Complement it with a hot cup of cocoa or a spiced tea for an extra cozy touch.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
Freezing: You can freeze the bread for up to a month. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Make it ahead: Prepare the dough a day before and refrigerate it overnight, allowing it to rise before baking.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just ensure you allow it to rise before baking. This can save you time on the day you want to enjoy it!

There are many additions you can try! Consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to your filling for a unique twist. Spices like nutmeg or cardamom can also bring a delicious depth of flavor.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw it before enjoying!

You can certainly substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option! However, it may alter the texture, making the bread denser. A mix of half all-purpose and half whole wheat could yield a pleasant balance.

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread is a truly special recipe that encapsulates warmth and comfort in every bite. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying with your morning coffee. I encourage you to try making it; it will surely become a beloved favorite in your home!