Monkey Bread Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate sweet treat to delight a crowd, look no further than Monkey Bread! This pull-apart masterpiece is everything you could hope for in a comforting homemade dessert: soft, pillowy pieces of cinnamon-kissed dough cloaked in a glorious caramel sauce, all baked together into a golden, sticky crown. Every piece is a little treasure—gooey on the outside, tender inside, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re making breakfast extra special or showing up at brunch with a show-stopping centerpiece, Monkey Bread never fails to bring smiles and hungry hands to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Monkey Bread is wonderfully simple to make, thanks to a handful of staple ingredients that magically transform into something downright spectacular. Each item plays a key role—the savory richness of the dough, the aromatic warmth of cinnamon, and that unforgettable caramel drizzle. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a little tip for each:

• Refrigerated buttermilk biscuit dough: The secret shortcut that keeps prep easy and the results extra fluffy—don’t skimp on quality here, as the dough is the heart of every bite.
• Granulated sugar: Adds that essential sweet crunch and helps the cinnamon cling to each doughy nugget.
• Ground cinnamon: Whisks in a cozy, inviting spice that perfumes the whole kitchen—freshly opened bottles always pack the best punch.
• Unsalted butter: Ensures the caramel sauce is luxuriously creamy and perfectly coats every piece—use real butter for that truly decadent flavor.
• Packed light brown sugar: Infuses the sticky glaze with deep, molasses-y richness and beautiful color.

How to Make Monkey Bread

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F so it’s hot and ready to work its magic. Meanwhile, gather your ingredients, because once you start, things come together quickly. Lightly grease a 10-inch bundt pan—get all those nooks and crannies so the Monkey Bread releases perfectly at the end.

Step 2: Cut and Coat the Biscuit Dough

Separate all the biscuit rounds and cut each one into quarters; this makes the perfect bite-sized pieces. Throw these into a big zip-top bag, toss in the granulated sugar and cinnamon, seal it tight, and give it a good shake. Every piece should come out generously coated in sweet spice—if your bag’s a little crowded, shake in two batches for even coverage.

Step 3: Layer It Up in the Bundt Pan

Pour your cinnamon-sugar coated biscuit chunks evenly into the prepared bundt pan, piling them gently so the shapes stay distinct. Arranging them loosely means that dreamy caramel will find its way into all the gaps, hugging each bite with flavor.

Step 4: Make the Buttery Caramel Sauce

In a small saucepan on medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and stir in the brown sugar. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil, melting into a rich, glossy sauce. Make sure it’s fully combined, then, while still warm, pour it over the biscuit pieces in the pan. Go slowly to cover every inch—this is the magic that gives Monkey Bread its signature sticky goodness!

Step 5: Bake, Cool, and Unmold

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is a deep golden brown and bubbling. Once baked, place the pan on a wire rack and let it cool for 10 minutes—this helps the caramel set a bit and makes turning it out onto a platter much easier. Lay a plate over the pan, invert gently, and lift the pan away to reveal that glorious, golden Monkey Bread. Let it cool for just a few minutes more before diving in while it’s still warm and gooey.

How to Serve Monkey Bread

Garnishes

A fresh-baked Monkey Bread really needs little extra, but if you’re feeling playful, add a drizzle of vanilla glaze, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scattering of toasted nuts for a lovely crunch. These finishing touches make each piece look as amazing as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Monkey Bread pairs beautifully with a platter of fresh fruit or a big bowl of tangy Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness. For breakfast or brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon for a complete and absolutely crowd-pleasing spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking the dough in individual greased muffin tins for personal Monkey Bread “cups”—they’re perfect for parties or picnics. For extra flair, turn your baked Monkey Bread out onto a cake stand and tuck in little flags or edible flowers for a festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Monkey Bread will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, staying soft and flavorful. Wrap it well or cover it tightly to keep everything moist (if it lasts that long!).

Freezing

This dessert freezes surprisingly well! Just wrap cooled Monkey Bread tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil. It can be stored in the freezer up to two months. Thaw overnight at room temperature for best results.

Reheating

For that freshly-baked magic, reheat leftovers in a 300°F oven, covered loosely with foil, for 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions in 20-second bursts—just enough to make the caramel gooey again.

FAQs

Can I make Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, bake as usual—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if straight from the fridge.

Is it possible to use homemade dough instead of canned?

Yes! While store-bought biscuits keep this recipe ultra-convenient, a classic yeast-based or homemade buttermilk biscuit dough brings a wonderful homemade flair. Just be sure to cut the dough into small pieces and proceed with the recipe as written.

Why is my Monkey Bread sticking to the pan?

Sticking usually happens if the pan isn’t greased thoroughly. Next time, use a baking spray or a generous coating of butter, making sure to get into all the crevices. Letting the bread cool for about 10 minutes before inverting also helps the sauce set just enough to unmold smoothly.

How can I add a little extra flavor?

Try tossing in a handful of mini chocolate chips, toasted pecans, or even a scattering of dried fruit between the biscuit pieces before pouring over the caramel. You can also flavor the sauce with vanilla extract for even more richness.

Can Monkey Bread be made gluten free?

Definitely! Simply substitute a good-quality gluten-free biscuit dough. Keep an eye on bake times, as gluten-free products sometimes need a touch less or more to turn golden and tender.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Monkey Bread is pure joy in every bite—an armful of sweet memories waiting to be shared. Whether you serve it at brunch, dessert, or a midnight snack attack, this recipe is bound to win fans every single time. Try it soon and see why it’s a family favorite in kitchens everywhere!

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