Golden Pull-Apart Milk Bread

Golden Pull-Apart Milk Bread is the epitome of comfort baking—pillowy, rich, and beautifully golden with a soft, buttery crumb. Designed for easy tearing, this loaf is a crowd-pleasing option for breakfast, snack time, or as a side to any meal. Delicately sweet and finished with a glossy glaze, each slice practically melts in your mouth, offering a bakery-quality experience from your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This milk bread stands out for its incredibly light texture and subtle sweetness. It uses everyday ingredients and simple techniques, but the results are anything but ordinary. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a pat of butter, or spread with jam, this loaf is as versatile as it is delightful. Its pull-apart design also makes it perfect for sharing, making it a lovely addition to brunch tables and gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• all-purpose flour
• sugar
• salt
• instant yeast
• warm milk
• heavy cream
• egg
• unsalted butter, softened
• egg (for egg wash)

Optional glaze:

• honey
• warm milk

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
2. Add the warm milk, heavy cream, and one egg. Mix until a dough begins to form.
3. Add the softened butter and knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic—about 10–12 minutes by hand or 8 minutes with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8–10 equal portions. Shape each portion into a rope and coil or place side-by-side in a greased loaf pan to form a pull-apart arrangement.
6. Cover the pan and let the dough rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Brush the top of the dough with beaten egg for a glossy finish.
8. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
9. While the bread is still warm, brush with a glaze made from honey and warm milk, if desired, for added shine and sweetness.
10. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10 slices
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per slice

Variations

• Savory version: Skip the sugar and glaze, and add chopped herbs or shredded cheese into the dough.
• Filled option: Stuff each dough ball with chocolate chips, jam, or cream cheese before arranging in the pan.
• Sweet twist: Add a swirl of cinnamon sugar to the dough before rolling it into ropes.
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and coconut cream to achieve a similar softness.
• Mini loaves: Divide the dough among smaller pans or muffin tins for individual servings.

Storage/reheating

Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave individual portions for about 15 seconds. Brushing lightly with butter before reheating can help restore its fresh-baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but it needs to be proofed first in warm milk for about 5–10 minutes until foamy before adding to the dough.

What makes milk bread so soft?

The combination of milk, cream, and butter, along with proper kneading and rising, creates a tender and airy crumb.

Can I make this dough in advance?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and shape it the next day before the second rise and baking.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The top should be golden, and the loaf should sound hollow when tapped. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) confirms it’s done.

Is the honey milk glaze necessary?

No, but it adds a beautiful shine and subtle sweetness that complements the bread’s flavor.

Can I knead by hand if I don’t have a stand mixer?

Yes, just knead for 10–12 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

What kind of milk should I use?

Whole milk works best for richness, but 2% or non-dairy alternatives can be used as well.

Can I shape it like a regular loaf instead of pull-apart?

Yes, simply shape the dough into one smooth log and place it in the loaf pan.

Why did my bread turn out dense?

This can happen if the dough is under-kneaded, didn’t rise fully, or if too much flour was added. Always measure carefully and allow enough rise time.

Can I add toppings?

Yes, sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse sugar before baking for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Golden Pull-Apart Milk Bread is an elegant yet approachable bake that brings the comfort of a bakery into your home. Its soft, buttery interior and golden crust make it a versatile option for any meal, from breakfast to dinner. With its simple ingredients and stunning presentation, this bread is a rewarding recipe for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Enjoy it fresh from the oven, and savor the tender, rip-apart texture that defines this delightful loaf.

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