Monkey Bread Recipe (with Video)

Monkey Bread Recipe: Monkey Bread, also known as pull-apart bread, is a delightful, gooey treat often enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This sticky, sweet bread gets its name because it’s fun to pull apart, much like a monkey picking at its food! Originating in the United States, Monkey Bread has grown in popularity because it combines the rich flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a caramel-like glaze that bakes into the bread, making each bite soft, sticky, and irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving a unique pastry, Monkey Bread offers a fun twist on traditional sweet rolls.

Ingredients Needed for Monkey Bread

To make delicious Monkey Bread, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. These can vary slightly depending on whether you prefer a sweeter or more buttery flavor, but the following list covers the essentials.

Primary Ingredients

• Refrigerated Biscuit Dough – 2 cans (about 16 oz each), or use homemade dough for a more hands-on experience.
• Granulated Sugar – 1 cup, for coating the dough pieces.
• Ground Cinnamon – 2 tablespoons, to add that classic spiced flavor.
• Butter – ½ cup (1 stick), melted for the caramel sauce.
• Brown Sugar – 1 cup, to create a rich, sweet glaze.

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor

• Nuts – ½ cup of pecans or walnuts, chopped, for a crunchy texture.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon, to enhance the sweetness.
• Raisins or Dried Cranberries – ¼ cup, if you like a fruity touch.

These ingredients create a balance of flavors and textures, giving your Monkey Bread a mouthwatering caramelized outer layer and a tender, fluffy inside.

Tools and Equipment Required

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to prepare and bake Monkey Bread.

Kitchen Tools

• Bundt Pan or Tube Pan – This helps create the traditional shape and ensures even baking.
• Mixing Bowls – For combining sugar and cinnamon, and for the butter-brown sugar glaze.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavor.
• Spatula or Spoon – For stirring ingredients together.
• Knife or Kitchen Scissors – To cut the dough into small pieces.

Alternatives for Missing Equipment

If you don’t have a bundt pan, a regular baking dish will work, though the baking time may vary slightly. Use a pie dish or square pan as an alternative.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Now let’s dive into the process of making this delicious Monkey Bread. Follow each step closely for the best results.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

If you’re using canned biscuit dough, open the cans and separate the dough pieces. If you’re using homemade dough, roll it into small balls that are about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 2: Cut and Coat Dough Pieces

1. Cut Dough into Pieces – Use a knife or kitchen scissors to cut the dough into quarters.
2. Mix Sugar and Cinnamon – In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of cinnamon.
3. Coat Dough Pieces – Roll each dough piece in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. This creates the sweet, spiced flavor that Monkey Bread is known for.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread in the Pan

1. Layer the Dough Pieces – Place the coated dough pieces evenly in the bundt pan.
2. Add Optional Nuts or Raisins – If you’re using nuts or dried fruits, sprinkle them between the dough layers for added flavor and texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. Melt Butter – In a small saucepan, melt ½ cup of butter over medium heat.
2. Add Brown Sugar – Stir in 1 cup of brown sugar until it’s fully dissolved, creating a thick, caramel-like sauce.
3. Optional Vanilla – Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Layer Dough Balls

Pour the sauce evenly over the dough pieces in the pan. This sauce will seep into the layers, creating the signature gooey, sticky texture of Monkey Bread.

Baking the Monkey Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.

Step 2: Bake Time and Temperature

Place the bundt pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The bread should rise and become golden brown on top.

Step 3: Check for Doneness

To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your Monkey Bread is ready! If it’s still sticky, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Cooling and Serving Suggestions

1. Cool Before Inverting – Allow the Monkey Bread to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. This will help prevent the caramel from running everywhere when you flip it.
2. Invert onto a Serving Plate – Place a plate over the bundt pan and carefully flip the pan upside down. Lift the pan slowly to reveal the beautiful, gooey bread.
3. Serving Tips – Monkey Bread is best served warm. You can pull it apart directly with your hands or use a fork for easier handling. Pair it with coffee or tea for a perfect brunch experience!

Alternative Recipe Variations

Cinnamon Caramel Version

For a richer caramel flavor, add a bit more brown sugar to the butter mixture and increase the cinnamon in the dough coating. You can also drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Savory Monkey Bread

Want to switch it up? Make a savory version by using garlic butter, shredded cheese, and Italian herbs instead of the sugar coating. It’s perfect for a unique appetizer or side dish.

Tips for Perfect Monkey Bread

1. Avoid Overcrowding – Give the dough pieces a little space in the pan to allow for even rising.
2. Butter the Pan Well – Coat the pan generously with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh cinnamon and good-quality butter make a big difference in flavor.

Storing and Reheating Monkey Bread

1. Storage – Place any leftover Monkey Bread in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.
2. Reheating – To reheat, wrap individual pieces in foil and warm them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes.

FAQs about Monkey Bread Recipe

What is Monkey Bread?

Monkey Bread is a sweet, pull-apart bread typically made with soft, doughy pieces coated in butter, cinnamon, and sugar. It’s baked together into a loaf and served warm, perfect for sharing!

Why is it called Monkey Bread?

The name “Monkey Bread” is thought to come from the way people eat it – by pulling apart small chunks, similar to how monkeys pick apart food.

What ingredients do I need for Monkey Bread?

The essential ingredients are refrigerated biscuit dough, butter, cinnamon, and sugar. Some recipes add nuts, caramel, or cream cheese for extra flavor.

How do I make Monkey Bread from scratch?

To make it from scratch, you’ll need to prepare a simple dough, cut it into pieces, coat each piece in cinnamon sugar, and arrange them in a bundt pan. Pour melted butter over the dough, bake, and enjoy!

Can I make Monkey Bread without a bundt pan?

Yes! You can use a loaf pan, square baking dish, or even a muffin tin for individual portions. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

How do I store leftover Monkey Bread?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also refrigerate it to keep it fresh longer and reheat portions in the microwave when ready to eat.

Can Monkey Bread be frozen?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

Monkey Bread is a crowd-pleaser that combines the best of sweet and sticky flavors in one pull-apart bread. It’s fun to make and even more fun to eat, and there’s always room to add your own twist to this beloved recipe. Try it for your next gathering or as a weekend treat, and enjoy every gooey bite!

References

For further reading and to validate the information provided in this Monkey Bread recipe, we recommend consulting these reputable sources:

1. Food Network – Offers a variety of Monkey Bread recipes, techniques, and chef insights to help you perfect this classic treat.
2. AllRecipes – Provides trusted recipes and user reviews to guide you through making Monkey Bread, with tips on ingredients and baking time adjustments.
3. Bon Appétit – Delivers detailed instructions and professional advice on Monkey Bread, including tips for achieving the ideal texture and flavor.
4. Serious Eats – Explores the science behind baking Monkey Bread, ensuring you understand the methods that lead to the best results.

Each source enriches your baking experience with expert tips and reliable methods, helping you create delicious Monkey Bread every time.