Monkey Bread
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, gooey, and deliciously sweet Monkey Bread. This pull-apart pastry is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, and it will leave your kitchen filled with the most comforting aromas. Using simple ingredients, this recipe creates a fluffy, cinnamon-sugar delight that everyone will adore. The best part? You don’t need any fancy skills to whip this up. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the deliciousness of Monkey Bread!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Monkey Bread recipe is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. The combination of refrigerated biscuits, sugar, and cinnamon creates a delightful texture and flavor. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a show-stopping dessert or breakfast centerpiece that will impress family and friends. Plus, it’s almost impossible to mess up, which means you can focus on enjoying the process and the delicious end result!
What to Buy
When preparing to make your Monkey Bread, here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need:
- 3 tubes refrigerated biscuits (10 biscuits in each tube)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup butter (you can choose either salted or unsalted)
- 1 cup brown sugar
Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor. You can even personalize this recipe by adding in your favorite mix-ins or toppings!
Gear Checklist
Before you get started, gather the necessary gear:
- Bundt pan – This is essential for giving your Monkey Bread its iconic shape.
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need a couple for mixing the sugar and cinnamon.
- Whisk – Great for combining your sugar and cinnamon evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to success.
- Oven mitts – Don’t forget these for safely handling your hot pan!
With your ingredients and gear ready, you’re all set to make some magic happen in the kitchen!
Monkey Bread: How It’s Done
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of creating this scrumptious Monkey Bread.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that once your Monkey Bread is ready, it bakes evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuits
Open the refrigerated biscuit tubes and separate the biscuits. Cut each biscuit into quarters. This will help them pull apart easily once baked.
Step 3: Mix Sugar and Cinnamon
In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir them together until they are well mixed. This will be the coating that gives your Monkey Bread its signature flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Biscuits
Take the quartered biscuit pieces and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Make sure each piece is fully coated for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Butter and Brown Sugar Mixture
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter along with the brown sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This will create a delicious caramel-like topping for your Monkey Bread.
Step 6: Assemble in the Bundt Pan
Grease your Bundt pan generously with butter or cooking spray. Layer the coated biscuit pieces into the pan, pouring the melted butter and brown sugar mixture over the top as you go. Continue layering until all the biscuit pieces are used.
Step 7: Bake
Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the biscuits are cooked through. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the Monkey Bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. The delicious sticky coating will drizzle down as you pull apart the pieces. Serve warm and enjoy!
Better Choices & Swaps
If you want to make some adjustments to this recipe, consider the following options:
- Whole wheat biscuits: For a healthier option, look for whole wheat refrigerated biscuits.
- Coconut sugar: You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index alternative.
- Nutmeg: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for extra warmth and flavor.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla extract in the melted butter mixture can enhance the flavor.
- Chocolate chips: Toss in some chocolate chips with the biscuit pieces for a delightful twist.
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own. The possibilities are endless!
Insider Tips
- For an extra gooey Monkey Bread, let it sit for a few minutes after inverting it before serving.
- If you’re short on time, you can use frozen biscuit dough instead of refrigerated biscuits.
- Want to make it even more decadent? Drizzle Chocolate Sauce over the top before serving.
- Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or pumpkin spice, especially during the holiday season.
Storing Tips & Timelines
To keep your Monkey Bread fresh and delicious:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature.
- Refrigerator: If you want to keep it longer, store it in the fridge for up to a week, but expect it to lose some of its original texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze Monkey Bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating it in the oven will help restore some of that fresh-baked taste!
Common Qs About Monkey Bread
Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of refrigerated biscuits?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite Homemade Butter biscuit recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure the dough is cut into similar-sized pieces for even baking.
What can I serve with Monkey Bread?
Monkey Bread is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a side of fresh fruit. You could also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert!
Is it okay to make Monkey Bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the biscuit pieces and coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture a day ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator and bake them fresh the next day!
Can I make Monkey Bread in a different pan?
While a Bundt pan is ideal, you can use a cake pan or a muffin tin, just keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary.
If you love Monkey Bread, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:
See You at the Table
Monkey Bread is more than just a treat; it’s an experience meant to be shared. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a festive occasion or simply enjoying a cozy morning with family, this pull-apart bread is sure to be the star of the show. So, gather your loved ones, serve up this delightful Monkey Bread, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Enjoy your baking adventure, and remember, each piece is a delightful bite of happiness!
Monkey Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Open the refrigerated biscuit tubes and separate the biscuits. Cut each biscuit into quarters.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.
- Toss the quartered biscuit pieces in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until each piece is fully coated.
- Melt the butter and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
- Grease your Bundt pan and layer the coated biscuit pieces, pouring the melted butter and brown sugar mixture over as you go.
- Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate. Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra gooeyness, let it sit for a few minutes after inverting before serving.
- You can use frozen biscuit dough if short on time.
- Drizzle chocolate sauce over the top for a decadent treat.
