Did you know making delicious homemade monkey bread only takes 30 minutes of baking time? This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, great for cozy weekend mornings or special holiday treats. With just a few simple steps, you can make a sweet, sticky, and cinnamon-flavored delight that will wow your taste buds.
The ingredients are easy to find, and the process is simple, making it perfect for both new and seasoned bakers. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing breakfast that serves 12 people, this delectable monkey bread recipe is for you. Preheat your oven to 350°F and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable homemade treat!
Key Takeaways
- The easy monkey bread recipe requires a prep time of about 20 minutes and a baking time of 30 minutes.
- Main ingredients include refrigerated biscuit dough, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter.
- Perfect for any occasion and serves up to 12 people.
- Monkey bread stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Simple reheating tips include microwaving smaller portions for 30 seconds or using an oven at 300°F for larger pieces.
Introduction to Monkey Bread
Monkey bread, also known as pull-apart bread or bubble bread, is a sweet treat. It’s enjoyed for breakfast or as a dessert. It’s made of small dough pieces coated in butter, cinnamon, and sugar. These pieces are baked in a Bundt pan until they become a cohesive, fragrant treat.
Making classic monkey bread involves four key parts: the dough, the coating, the brown sugar sauce, and vanilla icing. The dough is made from milk, sugar, yeast, eggs, butter, salt, and flour. After rising for 1-2 hours, the dough balls are coated in melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar.
Next, a brown sugar sauce is added. It’s made from butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. This sauce makes the bread even stickier. As it bakes, the kitchen fills with a delicious aroma.
The final touch is a drizzle of vanilla icing. It’s made from confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. This adds a sweet finish to the bread. The recipe takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete. It makes 12-14 servings, great for family gatherings or special occasions.
Monkey bread has its roots in Hungarian immigrants’ dish, aranygaluska, introduced in the 1880s. It has become a beloved treat in American homes, especially during the holidays. Its popularity in places like Hollywood and Beverly Hills shows its lasting appeal. For more bread recipes, check out this gluten-free sourdough bread recipe.
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Looking for a tasty treat that’s easy to make? The best monkey bread recipe is perfect. It’s great for any time, from breakfast to dinner. With just a few ingredients, you’ll make a dish everyone will love.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This monkey bread is great for any event. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a holiday morning. The dough takes 50 to 60 minutes to rise, but it’s worth it.
Imagine starting your day with warm, gooey monkey bread. You can even add flavors like orange cardamom or chocolate peanut butter to match the occasion.
Simple Ingredients
This recipe uses simple ingredients you can find easily. You’ll need canned biscuit dough, cinnamon, sugar, butter, and a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. These ingredients make a delicious and comforting monkey bread.
You can also use frozen bread dough or crescent dough for convenience. This makes it a great choice for a quick homemade treat.
Plus, you can make it ahead of time. Just assemble the bread in the pan and refrigerate overnight. This is perfect for busy mornings when you want to serve monkey bread for breakfast.
For more details and steps, check out the full recipe here. You can also explore different options and nutritional information to customize it to your liking.
Ingredients Needed for Homemade Monkey Bread
Making this delicious homemade monkey bread is easy and fun. You’ll need a few simple ingredients:
- 3 cans of refrigerated biscuits (like Grands)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- Active dry yeast (optional)
These ingredients mix to create a sweet and fluffy treat. The brown sugar and granulated sugar balance the flavor. You can also use active dry yeast for the dough.
For the best homemade monkey bread, use warm milk and water. The temperature should be between 105 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll need about 3 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour for the dough.
Preparing the dough takes just 5 to 10 minutes. Baking it takes 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll cut each biscuit into quarters, coat them in cinnamon-sugar, and put them in a greased bundt pan. Then, you’ll pour a butter and brown sugar mixture over the biscuits.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll get a warm and delicious treat. Each of the 64 dough pieces soaks up the sweet mixture, making it irresistible.
Here’s a quick summary:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated Biscuits | 3 cans |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 tablespoon |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 1/4 cups |
This easy monkey bread recipe is a hit with family and friends. It’s packed with flavor and is easy to make.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Monkey Bread from Scratch
Making monkey bread from scratch is a fun process. It involves several key steps. From making the dough to baking, each step is important for a delicious result.
Preparing the Dough
First, mix lukewarm milk with yeast and a bit of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets foamy. Then, in a big bowl, mix the yeast with more sugar, salt, butter, egg, and flour.
Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours. It should double in size.
Coating and Assembling the Dough Balls
After the dough rises, punch it down and cut it into 40-45 pieces. Roll each into a ball. Melt 1/2 cup of butter for the coating.
Make a mix of dark brown sugar and cinnamon. Dip each ball in butter, then in the cinnamon-sugar mix. Put the coated balls in a greased 12-cup Bundt pan. Let them rise again for an hour for a light texture.
Baking the Monkey Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Put the Bundt pan in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The monkey bread should be golden and cooked.
The kitchen will fill with a yummy smell. Let it cool a bit before taking it out of the pan. This makes it easier to enjoy.
By following these steps, you’ll make delicious monkey bread every time. Happy baking and enjoy your homemade treat!
Expert Tips for the Best Monkey Bread
Making the perfect monkey bread needs focus and some expert tips. Whether you’re a pro or just starting, these tips will make your homemade monkey bread a hit every time.
Proper Dough Rising
One key tip for monkey bread is to make sure the dough rises right. For the best results, let your dough proof in a warm, humid spot. Aim for temperatures between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This range is perfect for flavor and texture without overproofing.
Use 1 cup of warm milk and ⅓ cup of warm water at 110-120 degrees Fahrenheit. But, don’t let the mixture get too hot. Yeast doesn’t like high temperatures.
Preventing Sticky Situations
Sticky dough is a common problem in monkey bread making. To avoid this, make sure your Bundt pan is well-greased. This step is key to avoiding messy baking.
Also, put a baking sheet under the Bundt pan to catch any sugar drips. Letting the bread cool for a few minutes before flipping it helps with the sticky caramel topping. These tips can greatly improve your baking experience.
For more helpful advice on gluten-free bagels, visit this page.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 552 |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 73g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Sugar | 42g |
Monkey Bread Recipe Variations
Exploring the world of monkey bread, you’ll find many creative twists. These variations cater to different tastes. Try these exciting changes to make this classic treat even better.
Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread
Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread adds extra cinnamon and a cream cheese icing. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. This version brings a nostalgic cinnamon flavor with a gooey, sweet finish that everyone enjoys.
Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread
Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread is a delightful treat. It includes chocolate chips in the dough balls. This adds chocolatey goodness to every bite. It’s great for dessert or a sweet snack, adding extra indulgence.
Savory Monkey Bread
The Savory Monkey Bread recipe uses cheese, garlic, and herbs. It turns the sweet bread into a tasty appetizer or side dish. This shows how versatile monkey bread can be, fitting for meals and gatherings all year.
Monkey bread recipes cater to many tastes and occasions. For example, pumpkin monkey bread is perfect for fall. Whether you like cinnamon, chocolate, or savory cheese and herbs, there’s a monkey bread for you.
| Recipe Variation | Key Ingredients | Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread | Cinnamon, Cream Cheese | Breakfast, Brunch |
| Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread | Chocolate Chips | Dessert, Snack |
| Savory Monkey Bread | Cheese, Garlic, Herbs | Appetizer, Side Dish |
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Knowing how to serve monkey bread can make your meals better. It’s great for both family brunches and big parties. Try it with a fruit salad or coffee for breakfast. The sweetness of the bread goes well with the fruit and coffee’s bitterness.
At parties, offering different spreads can really impress guests. Serve it with cream cheese, honey, or chocolate sauce. This lets everyone make their own special version. It’s fun and makes the bread taste even better.
For those who like savory foods, monkey bread pairs well with soups or salads. The warm bread with cheese, herbs, or bacon is perfect for any meal. This makes monkey bread a hit at many events.
| Monkey Bread Type | Perfect Pairing | Setting |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Monkey Bread | Fruit Salad & Coffee | Breakfast & Brunch |
| Party Monkey Bread | Cream Cheese, Honey, Chocolate Sauce | Parties & Gatherings |
| Savory Monkey Bread | Soups & Salads | Lunch & Dinner |
Now you know how to serve monkey bread well. It’s time to get creative and enjoy it at your next gathering or meal.
Storing and Reheating Monkey Bread
Keeping monkey bread fresh is key to enjoying its tasty texture and flavor. There are important ways to store it and ways to reheat it. This way, every bite will be as delicious as the first.
Proper Storage Techniques
For the best taste, store your monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Don’t put it in the fridge as it can dry out. You can freeze it for 1-2 months to enjoy it later.
Here’s a quick guide on storing monkey bread:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Refrigeration: Best avoided as it can dry out the bread.
- Freezing: Store for 1-2 months in an airtight freezer bag or container.
Reheating Tips
There are a few ways to reheat monkey bread to keep it warm and gooey. If you’ve stored it at room temperature or in the freezer, follow these tips for the best results.
To reheat in the oven, preheat to 300°F and place the bread inside for about 10 minutes. This is great for larger portions. Or, microwave individual pieces for about 30 seconds for a quick warm-up, perfect for one serving.
| Reheating Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Oven | Preheat to 300°F, place monkey bread for 10 minutes. |
| Microwave | Microwave individual pieces for 30 seconds. |
Whether you’re storing or reheating monkey bread, these tips will help you enjoy its rich flavors anytime.
Why This is the Best Monkey Bread Recipe
This monkey bread recipe is a hit because it’s easy to make yet tastes amazing. It’s perfect for beginners and experts alike. You can also add your own twist with different flavors and toppings.
The secret to this recipe’s success is the quality of its ingredients. It uses 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, 1 cup of butter, and ¾ cup of brown sugar. This mix creates a sweet and rich taste that everyone loves.
Choosing this recipe is a smart move because of its high ratings. It has a 5-star rating from 61 votes. It was also updated on Oct 6, 2023, to make it even better.
Here are some key stats that prove it’s the best:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Published Date | June 21, 2020 |
| Servings | 8 |
| Calories per Serving | 822 kcal |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 40 minutes |
| Cooling Time | 10 minutes |
| Baking Temp | 350°F |
| Number of Biscuit Dough Packages | 3 (16.3-ounce packages) |
| Recommended Pan Size | 9 cup Bundt pan or larger |
| Alternative Ingredients | Nuts, Chocolate chips, Raisins, Vanilla glaze, Pumpkin spice |
In summary, this recipe stands out because of its high-quality ingredients and detailed steps. It’s also easy to customize, making it perfect for any baking event.
Conclusion
This easy monkey bread recipe is a sweet treat that’s simple to make. It’s great for a cozy family breakfast or a festive holiday gathering. It impresses everyone with its minimal prep time and delicious taste.
There are many recipe variations, like Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread and Savory Monkey Bread. Each one offers something special for everyone. Using quality ingredients makes it not only tasty but also healthy.
Try making this delightful pastry at home with the expert tips. Your guests will love the taste and texture. So, get your ingredients ready, follow the guide, and make everyone happy with this perfect monkey bread recipe.
F.A.Q
What is monkey bread?
Monkey bread is a sweet, sticky pastry. It’s often eaten for breakfast or as a treat. The dough is coated in butter, cinnamon, and sugar before baking in a Bundt pan.
Why is this the best monkey bread recipe?
This recipe is loved for its simplicity and delicious taste. It’s easy for beginners and experts to make. The result is always amazing.
Can I make monkey bread for special occasions?
Yes, monkey bread is great for any event. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or holiday treats. Its indulgent nature makes it ideal for any gathering.
What ingredients are needed for homemade monkey bread?
You’ll need flour, yeast, milk, butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. You can also add nuts or raisins for extra flavor and texture.
How do I make monkey bread from scratch?
Begin by mixing warm milk, yeast, sugar, and flour. Then, shape the dough into small balls. Dip each ball in melted butter and then in cinnamon-sugar.
Layer the dough in a Bundt pan. Let it rise again before baking until it’s golden brown.
Do you have any tips for making perfect monkey bread?
Make sure the dough rises at about 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, grease your Bundt pan well. Let the bread cool a bit before flipping to avoid the caramel topping.
Can I customize my monkey bread recipe?
Yes, you can make different versions. Try Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread, Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread, or Savory Monkey Bread. Just add your favorite ingredients and flavors.
How should I serve monkey bread?
Serve it with fresh fruit salad or coffee for breakfast. At parties, offer cream cheese, honey, or chocolate sauce. Savory versions pair well with soups and salads.
How do I store and reheat monkey bread?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Don’t refrigerate it. To reheat, bake at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
