Warm Cinnamon Pull Apart Delight

Soft, chewy, loaded with cinnamon sugar, and topped with luxurious cream cheese frosting, this Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread recipe is hands-down the best you’ll ever make. Prepare yourself for a truly decadent breakfast or brunch experience!

Indulge in the Irresistible Aroma of Homemade Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread

Few things awaken the senses quite like the comforting aroma of fresh bread baking. But when that delightful scent is infused with the warm, sweet spice of cinnamon, it transcends into an experience that can only be described as heavenly. This Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread isn’t just a simple loaf; it’s a breakfast masterpiece, reminiscent of your favorite bakery-style cinnamon rolls, perfect for any special occasion or simply to brighten an ordinary day.

Each delicate section of this magnificent loaf is meticulously layered with a generous coating of buttery, sweet cinnamon sugar goodness. Baked to a perfect golden brown, the bread emerges from the oven incredibly soft, fluffy, and fragrant. The pièce de résistance is a lavish topping of creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, transforming this already exquisite sweet yeast bread into an unforgettable culinary delight.

The Perfect Blend of Sweetness and Spice

Before the frosting, this bread is a sight to behold—golden, glistening with melted cinnamon sugar, and beckoning with its warm, inviting aroma. It’s so visually stunning that one might even consider serving it unfrosted. But wait! The addition of our silky smooth cream cheese frosting, with just a hint of aromatic nutmeg, elevates this bread to a level of pure perfection. The tangy sweetness of the frosting cuts through the richness of the bread, creating a balanced and utterly irresistible flavor profile.

Why This Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread is a Must-Try Recipe

This isn’t merely another sweet bread recipe; it’s an elevated take on classic cinnamon buns, redesigned into an effortlessly shareable loaf that promises both comfort and sophistication. We’ve perfected the blend of rich dough, a generous filling, and that signature cream cheese topping to create the most decadent homemade cinnamon bread you’ll encounter. Imagine the joy of serving this fluffy, perfectly spiced bread on Christmas morning, a leisurely weekend brunch, or any time you wish to make an ordinary moment extraordinary. It’s destined to become one of your favorite things to bake and share.

Cinnamon Sugar Pull-Apart Bread: Understanding the Difference from Monkey Bread

It’s common for people to confuse Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread with monkey bread, given their similar hands-on eating experience and sweet, buttery nature. However, these two delightful treats are not identical. Traditional monkey bread, sometimes affectionately called “monkey brains,” typically utilizes pre-made biscuit dough or refrigerated dough, which is divided into small dough balls. These balls are then rolled in cinnamon sugar, layered in a bundt pan, and baked. While they share a delightful taste, their preparation methods and the resulting dough characteristics are quite different. Our easy pull-apart bread recipe, in contrast, involves making a rich yeast dough from scratch, which is then rolled, filled, and expertly layered to achieve its distinctive pull-apart texture. For those interested in trying a monkey bread, I’ve shared a wonderful Apple Monkey Bread recipe that uses convenient dinner rolls.

Discover More Irresistible Sweet and Savory Bread Recipes

If the concept of a delightful pull-apart loaf or a satisfying sweet bread appeals to you, then you’re in for a treat! Explore these other fantastic recipes that are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack:

• Blueberry Lemon Pull Apart Bread: A burst of fresh, zesty flavor in every bite.
• Pumpkin Zucchini Streusel Bread: A seasonal favorite featuring a delicious crumbly streusel topping.
• Applesauce Bread With Chocolate Chips: A comforting and moist classic with a chocolatey twist.

Achieving Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread Perfection: Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips

While crafting this fluffy cinnamon bread involves several steps, every moment invested is richly rewarded with an unparalleled flavor and texture. For bakers who love to plan, several elements of this recipe can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal choice for hassle-free entertaining or a relaxed morning. You can prepare the cinnamon and sugar mixture and even whip up the creamy cream cheese frosting the night before, storing both in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring the frosting to room temperature before spreading.

For even greater convenience, you can prepare the entire bread dough up to the point of its second rise. After shaping the bread and placing it in the loaf pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight (for up to 12-18 hours). The next morning, simply remove the pan from the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes to finish its final proof, and then bake as directed. This method ensures you have a warm, freshly baked loaf with minimal effort on the day of serving.

Should you wish to enjoy this delightful treat even further into the future, the baked Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread freezes beautifully. It is best to freeze it unfrosted. Once completely cooled, wrap the bread tightly in multiple layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the bread at room temperature, warm it gently in a low oven if desired, and then apply a freshly made batch of cream cheese frosting for the ultimate fresh taste and texture.

Essential Ingredients for Your Fluffy Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread

The secret to an exceptional Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread lies in high-quality ingredients. Each component, from the rich butter to the aromatic cinnamon, contributes to the bread’s incredible texture and unforgettable flavor. For precise measurements and a full list of instructions, please refer to the complete printable recipe card located at the bottom of this post.

For the Irresistible Yeast Dough:

• Butter: Whether salted or unsalted, melted butter is crucial. It adds unparalleled richness and moisture, contributing to the bread’s tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
• Milk: Any type of milk will work, though whole milk offers a richer dough. It provides the necessary liquid for yeast activation and helps create a wonderfully soft texture.
• Cool Water: This ingredient is vital for moderating the temperature of the milk and butter mixture, ensuring it’s at the optimal warmth (around 105-115°F or 40-46°C) for activating the yeast without inhibiting its activity.
• Granulated Sugar: Not only does sugar sweeten the dough, but it also serves as food for the yeast, promoting a healthy rise and enhancing the overall flavor profile of the bread.
• Yeast: The magical leavening agent responsible for the bread’s airy, fluffy texture and impressive rise. Instant yeast is commonly used for its convenience, as it can often be mixed directly into the dry ingredients without prior proofing.
• Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the most authentic and deep flavor. It adds a subtle warmth and aromatic depth that beautifully complements the cinnamon.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs enrich the dough, contributing to a more tender texture, a richer flavor, and a beautiful golden hue in the baked bread.
• All-Purpose Flour: The structural backbone of our bread. You will need approximately 2 ¾ cups for the initial dough mixture, plus additional flour for dusting your work surface during kneading and rolling.

The Heart of the Flavor: Cinnamon Sugar Filling

• Melted Butter: Acts as a luscious adhesive, ensuring the cinnamon sugar mixture clings to every layer of the dough, creating moist, flavorful pockets throughout the bread.
• Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: A harmonious blend of both sugars is used. Granulated sugar provides crisp sweetness, while brown sugar adds a deeper, more complex sweetness with hints of molasses and caramel, perfectly enhancing the ground cinnamon.
• Ground Cinnamon: The undeniable star of this recipe! High-quality ground cinnamon imparts its signature warm, aromatic, and spicy notes, defining the delicious character of this pull-apart bread.

The Crown Jewel: Cream Cheese Frosting

• Cream Cheese: Softened, full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the most luxurious and tangy frosting. While low-fat options can be used, full-fat provides superior flavor and a creamier texture.
• Powdered Sugar (Confectioner’s Sugar): Essential for achieving a smooth, velvety, and lump-free frosting with the perfect level of sweetness.
• Nutmeg (Optional): A small sprinkle of freshly ground nutmeg adds an extra layer of warm, earthy spice, subtly enhancing the overall flavor profile of the frosting and complementing the cinnamon in the bread.

Your Detailed Step-by-Step Guide to Making This Delicious Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread

Creating this homemade cinnamon bread is truly a labor of love, but the incredible taste and rewarding experience make every step worthwhile. Don’t let the detailed instructions intimidate you; follow them carefully, and you’ll achieve a bakery-quality loaf that will impress everyone. Trust in the process, and you’ll be enjoying the best pull-apart bread you’ve ever tasted!

1. Prepare the Enriching Bread Dough

1. In a small, microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan, combine the milk and butter. Heat for approximately 45 seconds in the microwave, or gently over low heat on the stove, until the butter is fully melted.
2. Add the cool water to the warm milk and butter mixture. Stir gently. The ideal temperature for this mixture should be between 105°F and 115°F (40-46°C) to activate the yeast effectively without damaging it. A kitchen thermometer is useful here.
3. Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the liquid mixture, stirring until dissolved. Then, sprinkle the yeast evenly over the surface. Allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes. It should become visibly foamy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is active and ready.
4. Once the yeast is active, whisk in the beaten eggs and the vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, starting with one cup and stirring until just incorporated, then adding the second cup. Continue stirring. If the dough remains excessively sticky, add an additional ½ cup of flour, a little at a time, until it starts to come together.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Begin kneading the dough. This dough, due to its high butter content, will be softer and slightly more pliable than typical bread dough. Knead for 8-10 minutes, adding small amounts of flour only if absolutely necessary to prevent sticking. The dough is ready when it is smooth, elastic, and feels soft to the touch, and your fingers can press into it without a significant amount of dough adhering. It should form a nice, slightly oily ball.

7. Shape the kneaded dough into a smooth ball. Place it into a lightly oiled bowl, turning the dough once to ensure it’s coated.
8. Cover the bowl tightly with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place the covered bowl in a warm, draft-free location to rise for approximately one hour, or until the dough has noticeably doubled in size.

2. Craft the Aromatic Cinnamon Sugar Filling

9. While your dough is undergoing its first rise, prepare the delectable filling. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the spices and sugars are evenly distributed. This mixture is the essence of our cinnamon sugar goodness.

3. Roll, Fill, and Stack for Layers of Goodness

10. Once the dough has completed its initial rise, gently punch it down to release the trapped air. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface.
11. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out into a large, even rectangle, aiming for dimensions of approximately 12 inches by 20 inches. Keeping a ruler nearby can assist in achieving precise measurements for optimal layering.
12. Generously brush the entire surface of the rolled-out dough with the remaining melted butter, ensuring full coverage to help the cinnamon sugar adhere.
13. Evenly sprinkle the prepared cinnamon sugar goodness mixture over the buttered dough, covering it from edge to edge.
14. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, carefully cut the large dough rectangle into five equally sized strips. Each strip should measure approximately 12 inches long and 4 inches wide.
15. Delicately stack these five buttered and sugared strips directly on top of one another, forming a thick, layered stack of cinnamon-infused dough.
16. Next, cut this stacked dough into six equal sections. These sections are what will form the individual, easily “pull-apart” pieces of your finished bread.

17. Prepare a standard loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches) by thoroughly greasing it with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Alternatively, line it completely with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on the longer sides for easy removal after baking.
18. Carefully arrange the stacked dough sections vertically within the prepared loaf pan. Imagine them standing like files in a cabinet, one directly behind the other. A helpful tip is to set the loaf pan on its end while stacking, making it easier to arrange the layers.
19. Cover the loaf pan with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to undergo its second rise for another 40 minutes in a warm, draft-free location. During this time, the dough will expand and crowd the pan beautifully, creating that signature pull-apart effect.

4. Bake to Golden Perfection & Frost with Creamy Goodness

20. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
21. Bake the Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is a deep golden brown and the internal temperature, when measured with an instant-read thermometer, reaches between 200-205°F (93-96°C). If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the loaf with aluminum foil.

22. Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pan for approximately 10 minutes. This short resting period helps the structure of the bread to set before you remove it.
23. After 10 minutes, carefully invert the loaf onto a wire rack or serving platter to cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
24. While the bread cools, prepare the luscious cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and lump-free. If desired, sprinkle in a small amount of ground nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
25. Once the Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread has cooled completely, generously drizzle or spread the creamy cream cheese frosting over the entire top.
26. Serve warm or at room temperature, encouraging everyone to pull apart their own sweet, cinnamon-laden piece to enjoy!

Storing Your Delicious Leftovers

To maintain the freshness and moisture of any leftover Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Alternatively, you can cover the top of the bread tightly with plastic wrap. For extended storage, the bread can be refrigerated for up to a week. If you plan to freeze it (preferably unfrosted), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil; it will keep well for up to 3 months. Always thaw frozen bread at room temperature and then warm slightly before frosting and serving for the best experience.

Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!

If this incredible cinnamon sugar pull-apart bread recipe has captured your heart and taste buds, don’t let it get lost in your bookmarks! Make sure to save it by pinning it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board. That way, you’ll always have this beloved recipe at your fingertips whenever the craving for homemade cinnamon goodness strikes. Share the joy of baking with your friends and family!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread

Here are some common questions about making this delightful bread, along with detailed answers to help you achieve baking success!

• What exactly is Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread?
  Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is a delectable sweet yeast bread known for its unique layered construction. It’s made by spreading thin sheets of rich, homemade dough with melted butter and a flavorful cinnamon-sugar mixture. These prepared sheets are then stacked and cut into individual portions, which are then arranged vertically in a loaf pan. As the bread bakes, the layers expand and fuse together, resulting in a loaf that can be effortlessly “pulled apart” into individual, soft, and cinnamon-infused sections. It offers a similar comforting flavor profile to classic cinnamon buns but in a fun, shareable loaf format.
• Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast in this recipe?
  Yes, you can absolutely substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast in this recipe. The main distinction between the two is that active dry yeast typically requires proofing (activating) before being added to the rest of the ingredients. To proof active dry yeast, you would dissolve it in a portion of the warm liquid (like the milk/water mixture specified in this recipe) with a pinch of sugar. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until a foamy layer appears on the surface, indicating the yeast is alive and active. If your active dry yeast doesn’t foam, it may be old or inactive, and it’s best to discard it and use fresh yeast. Using active dry yeast might also slightly increase the dough’s rising times, so always observe your dough’s volume rather than strictly relying on the clock.
• What’s the purpose of adding vanilla extract to the bread dough?
  Vanilla extract plays a surprisingly significant role in enriching the overall flavor profile of this bread. While cinnamon is the dominant spice, vanilla adds a subtle yet complex layer of aromatic warmth and delicate sweetness. It beautifully complements the bold cinnamon and sugar, preventing the bread from tasting one-dimensional. The vanilla helps to round out and deepen all the flavors, contributing to a more nuanced and utterly delicious taste experience. For the best results, always opt for pure vanilla extract.
• Can I make this Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread ahead of time or freeze it for later enjoyment?
  Absolutely! This pull-apart bread recipe is very accommodating for make-ahead preparation and freezing, offering flexibility for your schedule:
  • Make Ahead (Overnight): You can prepare the dough through its first rise. After punching it down, shape it and place it into the greased loaf pan. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight (for up to 12-18 hours). The following morning, remove the pan from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes to warm up and complete its second rise before baking as per the instructions. You can also prepare both the cinnamon sugar mixture and the cream cheese frosting the night before and store them separately, ensuring a quick finish on baking day.
  • Freezing: For longer preservation, it is highly recommended to freeze the baked bread *unfrosted*. Once the bread has completely cooled after baking, wrap it meticulously in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the bread at room temperature, gently warm it in a low oven if you prefer it warm, and then apply a freshly prepared batch of cream cheese frosting. Freezing with the frosting can negatively impact its texture upon thawing.

Creative Substitutions for Your Pull-Apart Bread

Baking is an art that encourages creativity! Don’t hesitate to customize this easy pull-apart bread recipe to align with your personal tastes, dietary preferences, or simply to experiment with new flavor combinations. Make it truly your own!

• For the Chocolate Enthusiast: Replace the cinnamon with unsweetened cocoa powder (perhaps a mix of cocoa and a little cinnamon for depth) in the filling for a rich chocolate pull-apart bread. Consider adding a handful of mini chocolate chips between the layers for an extra chocolatey indulgence.
• Alternative Baking Pans: If a standard loaf pan isn’t available, a bundt pan makes an excellent alternative. Simply arrange the stacked dough sections around the center tube of the bundt pan. A 9×13 inch baking dish could also work, arranging the sections in rows.
• Yeast Choices: This recipe works well with both instant yeast and active dry yeast. If opting for active dry yeast, remember to activate it first by proofing it in warm liquid as detailed in the FAQ section.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: While not explicitly tested with this recipe, a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend designed for yeast breads could potentially be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Be aware that the texture and rise may vary, and you might need to adjust liquid slightly.
• Dairy-Free Version: To make this bread dairy-free, substitute regular milk with your favorite non-dairy milk alternative (like almond, soy, or oat milk). Use a high-quality plant-based butter substitute for both the bread and the filling, and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting.

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread

Master the art of making this incredible homemade cinnamon bread with these invaluable tips and tricks, ensuring every loaf is a showstopper.

• Elevate Flavor and Texture with Add-ins:
  • For an extra layer of flavor and texture, mix in a handful of golden raisins, chopped pecans, or walnuts with your cinnamon sugar mixture before sprinkling it over the dough.
  • A tiny pinch of ground cardamom, allspice, or even a hint of espresso powder can beautifully complement the cinnamon, adding complexity.
• Prevent Sticking: Always prepare your baking pan meticulously. Thoroughly spray it with non-stick cooking spray, or for guaranteed easy release, line it completely with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on the longer sides. This is particularly crucial for sweet, sticky breads.
• Precision Cutting for Perfect Layers: A pizza cutter is your best friend for quickly and cleanly slicing the dough strips and sections. For even neater, sharper edges, a bench scraper or a very sharp chef’s knife can also be used effectively.
• Temperature Accuracy is Paramount: Pay close attention to the temperature of your milk, butter, and water mixture. If it’s too hot, it will kill the yeast; if it’s too cold, it will significantly slow down yeast activity. Aim for the sweet spot of 105-115°F (40-46°C). An accurate kitchen thermometer is a small investment that makes a big difference.
• Optimal Rising Environment: Yeast dough thrives in a warm, draft-free environment. Ideal spots include a slightly warmed (but turned off!) oven, a sunny windowsill, or on top of a warm appliance. Proper rising is fundamental for achieving a light, airy, and fluffy bread texture.
• Avoid Overbaking: Overbaking is the enemy of moist bread. Keep a close eye on your loaf. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil to prevent further darkening while the interior finishes baking. The internal temperature (200-205°F) is the most reliable indicator of doneness.
• Smart Storage for Lasting Freshness: To keep your Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread tasting its best, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will remain fresh and delicious at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted portions for up to 3 months.

Discover More Unique & Delicious Bread Recipes to Love

If you thoroughly enjoyed the process of making and devouring this magnificent Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread, then you’re in for a treat with these other diverse and delightful bread recipes. Whether you’re looking for another sweet breakfast item, a savory companion for dinner, or a unique treat, each recipe offers a distinct flavor and texture experience. Dive in and find your next favorite baking adventure!

• Russian Rose Bread (pictured above): A stunningly beautiful and delicious sweet bread, perfect for impressing guests.
• Dorothy’s Cheesy Bacon Pull Apart Bread: A savory and incredibly addictive option for cheese and bacon aficionados.
• Blueberry Lemon Pull Apart Bread: Bright, zesty, and bursting with fruity flavor, ideal for spring and summer brunches.
• Crack Bread: A famously addictive savory bread, loaded with cheese and garlic.
• Toffee Monkey Bread Muffins: Individual, sticky, sweet, and convenient portions of monkey bread.
• Apple Monkey Bread: A warm, fruity, and caramel-infused take on the classic monkey bread.
• Explore All Bread Recipes: A comprehensive collection of recipes to satisfy every bread lover’s craving.

If you’re searching for a magnificent centerpiece to anchor your next brunch spread or simply craving an unparalleled sweet treat, this Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread is undoubtedly the answer. With its incredibly soft, tender layers infused with warming cinnamon and crowned with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting, there’s truly no more delightful or impressive way to begin your day or elevate any gathering. Prepare to impress and delight with every delicious, pull-apart piece!

This recipe was originally posted on August 9, 2015. It has been extensively updated to improve user experience, add more comprehensive details, and enhance SEO, and was reshared on October 17, 2023.