Experience pure chocolate bliss with this irresistible Chocolate Pull Apart Bread, an astonishingly delicious and beautifully layered sweet treat that promises to be a show-stopper!
This post has been sponsored by The Hershey Company, but all opinions expressed are entirely my own. I genuinely appreciate your support for me and the wonderful companies I choose to partner with.
Decadent Chocolate Pull Apart Bread: Your Ultimate Sweet Treat Recipe
Prepare yourself for an extraordinary baking adventure today! We’re diving into the creation of a truly magnificent dessert that’s as impressive to look at as it is delightful to eat: our homemade Chocolate Pull Apart Bread. This isn’t just any bread; it’s a rich, layered chocolate dream, generously packed with sweetness and crowned with a luscious cream cheese glaze. It’s the kind of treat that transforms any ordinary day into a special occasion, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a decadent dessert. Get ready to bake a show-stopping sweet bread that will captivate your taste buds and impress everyone you share it with.
The Enduring Charm of Pull Apart Bread: A Fun and Delicious Trend
Years ago, the culinary world buzzed with the arrival of pull-apart bread, and its popularity has only grown exponentially since then. While it may seem like a modern invention, the concept of a bread designed for individual pieces to be “pulled” from a larger loaf has roots in various global baking traditions, often appearing in different forms like Monkey Bread or even some European sweet breads. What makes this style of bread so captivating and universally loved? It’s the sheer fun and interactive experience it offers. Unlike a traditional sliced loaf, pull-apart bread invites you to engage with your food, tearing off a warm, soft, and perfectly portioned piece, often revealing delightful hidden fillings within.
From savory garlic and cheese versions to sweet cinnamon sugar variations, I’ve explored many facets of this fascinating bread over the years. Its unique format makes it ideal for sharing, whether at a casual family breakfast or as an impressive center-piece at a festive gathering. In fact, I’ve even featured a delightful red velvet rendition in my Red Velvet Lover’s Cookbook, showcasing its versatility. However, one glaring omission consistently caught my attention: a truly spectacular chocolate pull-apart bread. As a dedicated chocolate enthusiast, I firmly believe that every beloved sweet concept deserves a rich, chocolatey counterpart. It was a culinary mission I simply had to undertake, knowing that a chocolate version would undoubtedly become a fan favorite.
Crafting the Ultimate Chocolate Pull Apart Bread: A Journey of Flavor
My journey to create the perfect Chocolate Pull Apart Bread began in the kitchen, experimenting with different ratios and ingredients to ensure maximum chocolate impact. I started with my tried-and-true Red Velvet Pull Apart Bread recipe as a foundation, but quickly adapted it to maximize the chocolate experience. The goal wasn’t just a hint of cocoa; it was a full, decadent chocolate immersion in every single bite. To achieve this, I turned to the rich, robust flavor of HERSHEY’S Cocoa, which effortlessly infused the bread dough with an incredible depth of chocolate, creating a foundation that’s both aromatic and deeply satisfying.
The dough itself is carefully balanced, designed to offer a perfect, subtle sweetness that allows the deep cocoa notes to shine without being overwhelmingly sweet. This initial moderation is key, as it prepares the palate for the layers of indulgence to come. But why stop there? To truly elevate the chocolate factor and add an exciting textural element, I decided to incorporate generous layers of HERSHEY’S KITCHENS Semi-Sweet Mini Chips between each strip of dough. These mini chips are a game-changer; unlike their larger counterparts, they melt beautifully and, more importantly, stay suspended throughout the bread, ensuring that every single bite delivers a delightful burst of warm, gooey chocolate. You won’t find all the chocolate chips sinking to the bottom with this clever trick!
And because, in my culinary philosophy, you can never have too much of a good thing, I decided a simple yet sublime cream cheese glaze was the ideal finishing touch. This tangy, sweet glaze provides a wonderful contrast to the rich chocolate bread, cutting through the sweetness with a pleasant creaminess and adding essential moisture. It’s the final layer of indulgence that makes this pull-apart bread truly unforgettable. Each component, from the deeply flavored cocoa dough to the abundant mini chips and the luscious cream cheese glaze, works in harmony to create a truly luxurious and multifaceted sweet treat that’s impossible to resist.
Why This Chocolate Pull Apart Bread Will Become Your New Favorite Sweet Treat
Let’s just say, after baking countless loaves during the testing phase, I found myself constantly reaching for “just one more piece.” This isn’t merely a dessert; it’s an experience that brings joy to any table. The interactive nature of pull-apart bread makes it incredibly fun, especially for children who adore pulling off their own individual segments. It’s a fantastic way to engage them in the joy of sharing a homemade treat, fostering a sense of community around the kitchen table. The combination of the soft, tender cocoa bread, the delightful pockets of melted semi-sweet chocolate, and the bright tang of the cream cheese glaze creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is truly unparalleled.
This chocolate pull apart bread isn’t just good; it’s a testament to the simple pleasures and profound rewards of home baking. It’s perfect for a special family breakfast, a crowd-pleasing dessert at a gathering, or simply a comforting indulgence on a quiet afternoon. Imagine the aroma filling your home as it bakes, or the delighted faces of your loved ones as they discover the rich, gooey layers within. I’m convinced that a warm, freshly baked loaf of this chocolate delight should be a staple in every home, bringing smiles and satisfaction with every pull. It certainly has become one in mine, inspiring me to explore more creative and delicious baking projects in the kitchen!
Expert Tips for Baking Perfect Chocolate Pull Apart Bread
Creating this stunning chocolate pull apart bread is a rewarding process, and with a few key tips, you can ensure a flawless result every time. Yeast baking can sometimes feel intimidating, but it’s all about understanding the basics and exercising a little patience. Follow these expert guidelines for baking success:
- Yeast Activation is Key: Always start by combining your active dry yeast with warm water (around 105-115°F or 40-46°C) and a pinch of granulated sugar. This vital step “wakes up” the yeast. If it doesn’t foam and become bubbly within 5 to 10 minutes, your yeast might be old or the water temperature was incorrect (too hot will kill it, too cold won’t activate it). In such a case, it’s always best to start over with fresh yeast to ensure your bread rises properly.
- Achieving the Right Dough Consistency: When kneading the dough, whether by hand or with a stand mixer, aim for a smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky texture. It shouldn’t be overly sticky to the touch, nor should it be too dry and crumbly. Adjust flour content gradually, adding just a tablespoon at a time; the exact amount can vary based on factors like humidity in your kitchen and the specific type of flour you’re using. Over-kneading can result in a tough, dense bread, while under-kneading won’t develop enough gluten for a good rise and airy texture.
- The Ideal Rising Environment: Yeast dough thrives in warmth and is easily hindered by drafts. Find a cozy, draft-free spot in your kitchen for the rising process – perhaps near a sunny window, on top of a warm appliance, or even in a slightly warmed (but then turned off) oven. Covering the bowl with plastic wrap prevents a dry skin from forming on the dough and traps the necessary moisture and warmth to encourage a strong rise. Patience is truly a virtue here; allow the dough to double completely in size for the best texture and flavor development.
- Precise Layering for Perfect Pull-Apart: The magic of pull-apart bread truly lies in its intricate layers. When rolling out the dough, aim for an even 12×15-inch rectangle. Brushing with softened butter, evenly sprinkling with granulated sugar and the HERSHEY’S KITCHENS Semi-Sweet Mini Chips, and then stacking the strips carefully are all crucial steps. Gently press the filling into the dough with your hands to ensure it adheres. Arranging the stacked pieces upright, side by side, in the loaf pan ensures that each individual section can be easily pulled away after baking, creating that signature pull-apart effect.
- Don’t Rush the Second Rise: The second rise, performed in the loaf pans, is just as important as the first. This crucial resting period allows the dough to relax, expand further, and develop its final structure, resulting in a significantly lighter, fluffier, and more tender bread.
- Baking to Perfection: Bake the loaves until they are beautifully golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped gently on the bottom. For an accurate measure, an internal temperature of around 200-210°F (93-99°C) indicates the bread is fully cooked through. If you notice the tops browning too quickly during baking, you can loosely tent the pans with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Glazing for Shine and Flavor: Always allow the bread to cool slightly on a wire rack before drizzling with the luscious cream cheese glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting entirely and ensures it sets beautifully, adding both a delightful visual shine and an extra layer of sweet, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the rich chocolate bread.
Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations
This Chocolate Pull Apart Bread is truly versatile and can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways. It’s absolutely divine served warm, perhaps with a mug of freshly brewed coffee, a comforting cup of tea, or a tall glass of cold milk. It makes an incredible, eye-catching addition to any brunch spread, serving as a standout dessert after dinner, or even a comforting and satisfying afternoon snack. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider serving it with a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps infused with a hint of vanilla or espresso.
Feeling creative and want to put your own twist on this delightful recipe? Here are a few ideas to customize your next loaf:
- Nutty Addition: For an added layer of texture and flavor, fold in some chopped pecans, walnuts, or even hazelnuts into the chocolate chip filling. Their earthy notes pair wonderfully with chocolate.
- Spiced Delight: A pinch of cinnamon, a dash of nutmeg, or even a tiny amount of cayenne pepper (for an exciting Mexican hot chocolate twist) in the cocoa dough can add a surprising and delightful depth of flavor.
- Citrus Brightness: Finely grate a bit of fresh orange zest into the cream cheese glaze for a refreshing citrus note that cuts through the richness and pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
- Different Chocolates: Experiment with various types of chocolate chips for the filling. Try milk chocolate chips for a sweeter profile, or chopped dark chocolate for a more intense cocoa experience, depending on your personal preference.
- Caramel Swirl: After brushing with butter and sprinkling with chips, drizzle a little caramel sauce before stacking the layers for a gooey caramel-chocolate delight.
Storage Tips for Your Homemade Chocolate Pull Apart Bread
To keep your freshly baked Chocolate Pull Apart Bread at its best, store it covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw at room temperature and gently warm slices in a toaster oven or the main oven for that delicious fresh-baked experience.
Chocolate Pull Apart Bread Video
Explore More Delicious Pull Apart Bread Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the pull-apart concept and its endless possibilities, you’ll be thrilled to know there’s a whole world of delicious variations to explore! The interactive and flavorful nature of these breads makes them perfect for any occasion. Here are a few other favorites from my kitchen:
- Bright & Zesty Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread
- Classic Red Velvet Pull Apart Bread
- Beginner-Friendly Monkey Bread (from scratch)
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Chocolate Pull Apart Bread
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
For the bread:
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 8 tablespoons butter cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 (0.25 oz) each packages active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar plus an additional pinch
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 cup HERSHEY’S cocoa
- 5 cups bread flour
For the filling:
- 3 tablespoons butter softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup HERSHEY’S KITCHENS Semi-Sweet Chocolate Mini Chips
For the Glaze:
- 4 oz. cream cheese softened
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter softened
- 3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Heat the milk and the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until the butter is melted. Remove from the heat and cool to lukewarm.1 1/2 cups milk, 8 tablespoons butter
- Combine the warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar in a small bowl and let sit until the yeast is foaming, 5 to 10 minutes.1/2 cup warm water, 2 (0.25 oz) each packages active dry yeast
- Combine the milk/butter mixture and the yeast mixture in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix in the 3/4 cup of sugar, the salt and the baking soda. Mix in the cocoa and 2 cups of the flour. Switch to the dough hook and continue to add flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl. (You may need a little less or a little more flour.) Knead at medium-low speed until the dough is smooth and tacky but not overly sticky, 3-5 minutes.3/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 3/4 cup HERSHEY’S cocoa, 5 cups bread flour
- Oil a large bowl with vegetable oil. Turn the dough onto a counter and form it into a ball. Put the dough in the bowl and turn it over to coat it with the oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 1/2 hours.
- Spray two 9×5-inch loaf pans with nonstick cooking spray.
- Divide the dough in half. Roll one half of the dough into a 12×15-inch rectangle. Brush the dough with half of the softened butter. Sprinkle with half of the sugar and mini chips, pressing them lightly into the dough with your hands. Slice the dough into 6 strips (each 2×15 inches), stack the strips, and cut each stacked strip into 6 pieces. Set the strips upright, side by side, in one of the loaf pans. Repeat with the remaining dough and ingredients. Cover the pans with plastic wrap and allow the loaves to rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour.3 tablespoons butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup HERSHEY’S KITCHENS Semi-Sweet Chocolate Mini Chips
- About 15 minutes before the loaves finish rising, preheat the oven to 350ºF. When the rising is complete, bake the loaves until cooked through, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool on racks.
- To make the glaze, beat the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar and butter in a bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in the milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the mixture reaches a drizzling consistency. Remove the loaves from the pans and drizzle with the glaze.4 oz. cream cheese, 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, 1 tablespoon butter, 3 tablespoons milk
- Cover with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.