Description
Flaky, buttery croissant dough meets the warm embrace of cinnamon and honey in this pull-apart bread. With its golden layers and irresistible aroma, this treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack. Every bite is a harmony of soft, buttery layers swirled with cinnamon sweetness. Simple to make and even easier to devour!
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups whole milk, warmed (102-110°F)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
- 4 ½ – 5 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 tablespoons room-temperature butter
For the Butter Layers:
- 2 sticks (1 cup) thinly sliced cold butter
For the Filling:
- 6 tablespoons room-temperature butter, divided
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Finishing Touch:
- 1 egg, whisked (for brushing)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- Warm the milk to 102-110°F.
- Whisk in honey and stir in yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a stand mixer, combine 4 ½ cups flour and salt.
- Pour in the yeast mixture and knead for 5 minutes.
- Add 4 tablespoons of butter, mix for 2 more minutes.
- If sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time until dough pulls away from the sides.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled (1-2 hours).
- Layer the Butter:
- Roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Place thin slices of cold butter down the middle third.
- Fold one-third over the butter, then fold the opposite third over it.
- Roll out again to 12×18 inches and repeat the folding.
- Wrap in plastic and freeze for 20 minutes.
- Second Butter Fold:
- Roll out to 12×18 inches, fold again.
- Wrap and freeze for another 20 minutes.
- Cinnamon Sugar Infusion:
- Roll out to 12×18 inches.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of butter over the surface.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly.
- Roll into a tight log, pinch edges to seal.
- Shaping the Bread:
- Cut the log in half, then slice each half into 10 rolls.
- Butter two bread pans and arrange rolls in alternating layers.
- Cover and let rise for 35 minutes.
- Baking to Perfection:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Brush tops with whisked egg.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the butter remains cold during layering for the best flakiness.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment for optimal texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F for a fresh-baked feel.
- Prep Time: 2 hours (including rising and chilling)
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired