Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

If you have been looking for a simple yet irresistibly delicious treat to add to your baking repertoire, this Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. Soft, buttery rolls layered generously with cinnamon sugar come together in a loaf that practically begs to be pulled apart and shared with friends and family. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of tender dough and sweet spice, crowned with a luscious vanilla glaze that provides a glossy finish and an extra touch of indulgence. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, this recipe makes baking feel joyful and rewarding.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. Each part plays a crucial role, from the fluffy dinner rolls creating the structure to the cinnamon sugar bringing that signature warmth and sweetness.

• 12 frozen dinner rolls: The base of this bread, thawed to become soft and perfect for folding and layering.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick to each roll.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and caramelizes lightly during baking.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Delivers the warm, fragrant spice that defines the flavor profile.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: For the glaze, providing a smooth sweetness that balances the cinnamon.
• 1-2 tablespoons whole milk: Adjusts the glaze consistency for easy drizzling.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the glaze with a fragrant, homey note that complements the bread perfectly.

How to Make Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

Step 1: Thaw and Prepare the Dinner Rolls

Start by taking your 12 frozen dinner rolls out of the freezer and placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them and let them thaw at room temperature until they’re soft enough to roll out without tearing. This step ensures the dough will be pliable and ready for layering with the cinnamon mixture.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Once your rolls are thawed, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray. This will make sure your beautiful loaf slides out easily once baked, keeping those lovely layers intact.

Step 3: Flatten the Rolls

Using your hands or a rolling pin, gently flatten each thawed roll to about ¼ inch thickness. This allows the cinnamon butter mixture to coat every nook and cranny, ensuring every bite bursts with buttery cinnamon goodness.

Step 4: Mix and Coat with Cinnamon Butter

Combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until fully blended. As you take each flattened roll, coat it generously in this mixture. This step is where the magic really starts—the combination of sugar and butter creates that irresistible crunchy-sweet crust after baking.

Step 5: Stack and Arrange in the Loaf Pan

Stack the coated rolls one on top of another carefully, then place the whole stack sideways into the prepared loaf pan. Fitting them snugly allows the rolls to rise and bake together, creating that signature pull-apart effect.

Step 6: Add Extra Butter Mixture on Top

Brush any leftover cinnamon butter mixture over the top of the stacked rolls once they’re in the pan. This ensures even more flavor and helps the top crust develop a beautiful golden color during baking.

Step 7: Let the Loaf Rise

Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for about an hour, or until the loaf nearly reaches the top of the pan. This rise is key to achieving the fluffy, airy texture that makes pull-apart bread so delightful.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes, watching for a deep golden-brown color on the exposed dough parts. The bread should register a temperature of 190°F (88°C) in the center when fully baked, confirming it’s cooked through but still moist inside.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While your loaf cools completely, whip up the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Start with 1 tablespoon of milk and add more as needed—this gives you control over the perfect drizzle consistency for finishing your bread.

Step 10: Drizzle and Serve

Once the loaf has cooled, drizzle the vanilla glaze generously over the top. The glaze adds a shiny finish and just the right amount of sweetness, making this Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe utterly irresistible at the table.

How to Serve Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation, sprinkle a tiny pinch of extra cinnamon or even some finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the glaze. This adds a lovely crunch and a touch of visual appeal that invites everyone to dive right in.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea, making it an ideal companion for brunch or breakfast. It also complements a creamy fruit yogurt or a simple fresh fruit salad, balancing the sweetness with a refreshing bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pull-apart bread in a decorative basket lined with a colorful cloth napkin. You can even place small bowls of honey or extra glaze on the side for dipping, turning it into an interactive treat perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cinnamon pull-apart bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keep it covered well to maintain softness and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to one month in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, gently reheat slices in a microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or warm the whole loaf in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes. This refreshes its soft texture and brings back that freshly baked aroma.

FAQs

Can I use fresh dinner rolls instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh dinner rolls will work just as well. They should be soft enough to flatten and layer without breaking, so make sure they are fresh but not too crusty.

Do I have to use a loaf pan?

While a 9×5-inch loaf pan provides the classic shape and helps the rolls rise together properly, you could try a bundt pan or round cake pan for a different look. Keep an eye on baking time, as it might vary slightly.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the layers?

Yes, adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even raisins, can give the bread extra texture and flavor. Sprinkle them evenly between the layers as you stack the rolls before baking.

Is the glaze necessary?

The glaze adds a lovely finishing touch of sweetness and visual appeal, but the bread is delicious even without it. If you prefer a less sweet option, simply omit the glaze or dust with powdered sugar instead.

How long does it take to rise before baking?

About one hour of rising time is usually enough for the loaf to puff up nicely in the pan. This period ensures the bread will be light and fluffy rather than dense.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about baking bread that you can pull apart with your hands, especially when it’s infused with cinnamon and topped with a sweet glaze. This Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe brings that warm feeling of comfort and delight into your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite go-to for brunch, dessert, or whenever a delicious treat is needed. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds.

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