Monkey bread is a baked dish made from small dough balls dipped in cinnamon sugar and arranged in a pan. It’s then baked until golden and topped with a caramel glaze. The pull-apart nature of the bread makes it fun to eat, and its sweet, rich flavour is irresistible.
I first tried making monkey bread with my family, and it quickly became one of our favourites. The dough is easy to work with, and the cinnamon sugar coating makes it so flavorful. The best part is pulling apart the bread and enjoying it with loved ones. It’s a simple recipe that always brings smiles.
Why You’ll Love This Monkey Bread Recipe
This monkey bread recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for beginners. The ingredients are readily available, and the instructions are straightforward so that you won’t feel overwhelmed. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to the world of homemade baking.
The warm, gooey texture of monkey bread is irresistible. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and cinnamon, creating a treat that’s both comforting and delicious. This recipe is sure to become a family favourite.
Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, monkey bread is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s fun to pull apart and share with loved ones. This recipe ensures every piece is as tasty as the last.
Monkey bread also makes your kitchen smell amazing. The combination of sugar, butter, and cinnamon fills the air with a sweet aroma that will have everyone excited to dig in. This recipe will make your house feel warm and inviting.
Pre-Preparation of Monkey Bread Recipe
Before we begin the fun part of making the bread, let’s prepare the kitchen. First, ensure that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s nice and hot when your dough is ready to go in. Prepare your bundt pan by greasing it thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent your monkey bread from sticking.
How to Make Monkey Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Now, let’s talk about ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make your homemade monkey bread:
- 2 cans of refrigerated biscuit dough (each can should have eight biscuits)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but adds great flavour)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for added moisture)
- Pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
Directions
This is where the magic happens! Follow these simple steps for a perfect monkey bread:
- Prep the Dough – Open the cans of biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into 4 small pieces, creating little bite-sized chunks of dough.
- Toss the Dough – In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Toss the biscuit pieces in this cinnamon sugar mixture until each piece is coated.
- Layer the Dough – Layer the dough pieces in the greased bundt pan. You can create a random pattern or make neat layers – whatever you like!
- Prepare the Butter Mixture – In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this buttery mixture evenly over the layered dough in the pan.
- Bake – Place the bundt pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve – Let your monkey bread cool for a few minutes before flipping it out onto a plate. Serve while it’s still warm for that gooey, sticky goodness!
Nutrition and Health Benefits of Monkey Bread Recipe
Nutrition Benefits:
- Rich in Carbohydrates: Monkey bread is made from dough that is often rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick energy source to fuel your day.
- Good Source of Fiber: Depending on the type of dough used (whole wheat or added grains), monkey bread can provide a fair amount of fiber to help with digestion and maintain gut health.
- Provides Essential Vitamins: Monkey bread contains ingredients such as butter and eggs, which offer vitamins A and D. These vitamins are vital for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and bone health.
- Source of Protein: The eggs and dairy in the recipe contribute a decent amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and immune function.
- Calcium Boost: If you add milk or dairy-based products, you’ll get a good amount of calcium, which is necessary for strong bones and teeth.
Health Benefits:
- Boosts Energy Levels: With its carbohydrate-rich dough, monkey bread gives a quick energy boost, making it a good choice for breakfast or a snack before a workout.
- Improves Digestion: The fiber from whole wheat or other grains can improve digestion, help regulate bowel movements, and prevent constipation.
- Supports Bone Health: The calcium and vitamin D in monkey bread helps keep bones strong and prevent osteoporosis, especially as you age.
- Supports Immune Function: The protein and vitamins in the recipe contribute to a strong immune system, helping the body fight off infections.
- A Comforting Treat: Although not always a healthy option, monkey bread can be enjoyed in moderation as a comforting treat that provides emotional well-being and satisfaction.
Monkey Bread Recipe Variation
For a twist, try adding nuts or fruit to the monkey bread. Chopped pecans or walnuts bring a crunchy texture. You could also add diced apples or pears for a fruity flavor. Drizzle a vanilla glaze over the bread for extra sweetness.
How to Serve Monkey Bread Recipe
Serve monkey bread warm for the best taste. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Guests can pull apart the sticky pieces with their hands, making it a fun, interactive treat.
Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea. This adds a cosy, comforting vibe to any gathering.
Storage Options
To store leftover monkey bread, wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For more extended storage, please place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Reheat slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to restore their warm, gooey texture.
FAQs About Monkey Bread Recipe
Can I use store-bought dough for monkey bread?
Yes, you can use store-bought biscuit dough to make monkey bread quickly and easily. It saves time while still delivering a delicious treat.
How do I prevent my monkey bread from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure you bake the monkey bread until it’s golden brown and firm. Avoid over-soaking the dough in the butter and sugar mixture before baking.
Can I make monkey bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare monkey bread the night before and refrigerate it. Let it rise at room temperature overnight before baking the next morning.
How long does it take to bake monkey bread?
Monkey bread typically bakes for 30-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Check for a golden-brown colour and ensure it’s fully cooked before removing it from the oven.