Easy Monkey Bread

Monkey Bread is a delightful pull-apart treat made from bite-sized pieces of dough, coated in cinnamon sugar, and baked in a buttery brown sugar sauce. This gooey, sticky, and utterly delicious bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, and is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: Utilizing store-bought biscuit dough makes this recipe quick and easy, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
• Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and buttery caramel creates an irresistible taste that satisfies any sweet craving.
• Versatility: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, a dessert, or a snack—Monkey Bread fits any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cans buttermilk biscuit dough (non-flaky)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup brown sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9- or 10-inch Bundt pan generously.
2. Prepare the Dough: Open the biscuit cans and cut each biscuit into quarters.
3. Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: In a large zip-top bag, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon. Adjust the cinnamon quantity based on your preference. Add the biscuit pieces to the bag, seal, and shake until all pieces are well-coated.
4. Assemble in Pan: Place the coated biscuit pieces evenly in the prepared Bundt pan. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts or raisins among the dough pieces for added texture and flavor.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar. Cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
6. Add Sauce to Dough: Pour the butter-brown sugar mixture evenly over the biscuit pieces in the Bundt pan.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the caramel is bubbling.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, invert the pan onto a serving plate, allowing the Monkey Bread to release. Serve warm, and enjoy pulling apart the gooey pieces.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts between the dough layers for a delightful crunch.
• Fruity Twist: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Chocolate Indulgence: Place chocolate chips between the dough pieces for a melty surprise.
• Homemade Dough: For a from-scratch version, prepare your own yeast dough instead of using canned biscuits.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for about 20 seconds, or reheat the entire Monkey Bread in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through.

FAQs

What is Monkey Bread?

Monkey Bread is a soft, sticky, pull-apart bread made from small pieces of dough coated in cinnamon sugar and baked with a buttery brown sugar sauce.

Why is it called Monkey Bread?

The name comes from the way it’s eaten—by picking apart the pieces with your fingers, similar to how a monkey might eat.

Can I make Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Monkey Bread the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh in the morning.

Do I need a Bundt pan to make Monkey Bread?

While a Bundt pan is traditional, you can use a tube pan or even a regular baking dish; just adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I use homemade biscuit dough?

Absolutely! Homemade biscuit or yeast dough can be used for a more personalized touch.

How do I prevent Monkey Bread from sticking to the pan?

Ensure you generously grease your pan with butter or non-stick spray before adding the dough.

Can I add a glaze on top?

Yes, drizzling a simple powdered sugar glaze over the Monkey Bread adds extra sweetness and visual appeal.

Is Monkey Bread served warm or cold?

It’s best enjoyed warm when the caramel is gooey and the bread is soft.

Can I freeze Monkey Bread?

Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with Monkey Bread?

It pairs well with fresh fruit, coffee, or a glass of milk for a complete breakfast or brunch.

Conclusion

Monkey Bread is a scrumptious, crowd-pleasing treat that’s both fun to make and eat. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend indulgence, its sweet, gooey goodness is sure to delight everyone at the table.

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