1-First, combine ½ cup apple cider, 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons active dry yeast in a mixer; let it sit for 5 minutes until it bubbles.

2-Add 3 large eggs at room temperature and 1 ½ teaspoons salt, then mix in 3 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour.

3-Incorporate 8 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature piece by piece, and beat until smooth.

4-Let the dough rise with periodic folding for 2 hours, then refrigerate overnight to enhance flavor and ease of handling.

5-For the filling, mix ¾ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

6-Roll out the chilled dough into a 20 by 12-inch rectangle, brush with 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, and sprinkle the filling evenly.

7-Cut into strips, stack, and slice into smaller pieces, then arrange in a greased 9x4x4-inch pan.

8-Let rise for 45 to 60 minutes, then bake at 350°F for 40 to 50 minutes until golden.

9-Prepare the icing by reducing ½ cup apple cider with a pinch of salt, then whisk in 2 tablespoons cream cheese, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon apple brandy (if using), and 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar until smooth.

10-Drizzle half the icing over the baked bread in the pan, let sit for 15 minutes, then remove and add the remaining icing.