Poppy Seed Pull Apart Bread

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Golden, buttery, and irresistibly fluffy—Poppy Seed Pull Apart Bread is a nostalgic bake that feels like home in every bite. Swirled with a sweet poppy seed filling and baked to golden perfection, each piece pulls away in soft spirals that melt in your mouth. It’s a gorgeous centerpiece for any brunch spread and an indulgent comfort food for chilly afternoons.

Whether you’re revisiting a childhood favorite or discovering poppy seed bakes for the first time, this pull-apart bread is guaranteed to win hearts. The rich filling balances just the right amount of sweetness with a toasty, nutty crunch from the seeds. Served warm, it’s the kind of bake that disappears faster than you’d expect.

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What Kind of Dough Works Best for Poppy Seed Pull Apart Bread?

For this bread, a rich yeast dough is key. A soft, enriched dough with eggs, butter, and milk creates the tender texture that tears apart so satisfyingly. You can make it from scratch or use a reliable brioche-style base if you’re in a pinch for time. The goal is pillowy softness that rises beautifully and supports the swirl of sweet filling.

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Ingredients for the Poppy Seed Pull Apart Bread

• All-Purpose Flour – The base of the dough, it gives the bread its structure without making it dense.
• Whole Milk – Warmed milk helps activate the yeast and adds moisture for a soft crumb.
• Active Dry Yeast – Leavens the dough, creating those airy pull-apart layers.
• Eggs – Richens the dough and helps bind everything together.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to both the dough and the filling.
• Butter – Both melted in the dough and brushed on top, it lends a rich flavor and helps with browning.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Poppy Seeds – The star of the show, adding texture and earthy, nutty flavor.
• Honey or Vanilla Extract (optional) – Adds depth to the filling or dough.

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How To Make the Poppy Seed Pull Apart Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk (around 110°F) with sugar and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add the eggs, softened butter, and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Poppy Seed Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare your poppy seed filling. In a small saucepan, combine poppy seeds with a bit of sugar, butter, and optional honey or vanilla extract. Stir over low heat just until everything is well blended and the seeds are fragrant. Let it cool.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the poppy seed mixture evenly over the dough. Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into equal pieces.

Step 4: Arrange and Proof Again

Arrange the rolls, cut side up, in a buttered baking dish. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with a bit of melted butter. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. Let them cool slightly before serving warm.

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Serving and Storing Poppy Seed Pull Apart Bread

Serve this bread warm from the oven, when the spirals are softest and the aroma is most inviting. It’s perfect with coffee or tea, and equally delightful as a sweet addition to brunch or a comforting evening treat. You can add a drizzle of honey or dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.

To store, wrap the cooled bread tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for 2-3 days, or up to a week in the fridge. Warm slices gently in the microwave or oven before serving. You can also freeze it—just thaw and reheat when cravings hit.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling and filling.

Can I use store-bought poppy seed filling?

Absolutely. If you’re short on time, a good-quality canned poppy seed filling works just fine.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The top should be deep golden brown, and if you gently tap the top, it should sound hollow. You can also use a thermometer—the internal temp should be about 190°F.

What if I don’t have active dry yeast?

You can substitute with instant yeast, just reduce the rise time slightly and skip the proofing step with warm milk.

Can I add raisins or nuts to the filling?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, almonds, or golden raisins make excellent additions for a heartier texture.

Do I need a stand mixer to make this?

Nope! You can knead the dough by hand. It takes a bit more elbow grease, but it’s worth it.

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Want More Bread Ideas with a Twist?

If this Poppy Seed Pull Apart Bread has you inspired, check out these other creative and comforting bread recipes:

• Soft and Fluffy Homemade Naan Bread for an airy, skillet-cooked flatbread.
• Homemade Flaky Croissants if you’re up for a buttery, layered baking challenge.
• 2-Ingredient Pineapple Cake for a tropical sweet bread twist.
• Whipped Shortbread Cookies for a buttery treat that’s crisp and crumbly.
• Apple Enchiladas: A Sweet and Comforting Treat when you’re craving warm fruit-filled bakes.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest baking board so you can revisit it for your next cozy weekend project.

And once you try it, come back and tell us how it went! Did you stick with just poppy seeds, or add some raisins and nuts too? Maybe a lemon glaze on top?

We’d love to hear what creative twists you added. Sharing your tips and versions helps everyone bake better.

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