Irresistible Monkey Bread

Monkey Bread is one of those delightful dishes that blurs the line between breakfast and dessert. With its soft, pull-apart dough coated in cinnamon-sugar goodness and topped with a buttery glaze, it’s no wonder this recipe is loved by kids and adults alike. Whether served during a cozy family brunch or as an after-dinner treat, Monkey Bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Print

This easy-to-follow recipe uses pre-made biscuit dough, making it quick to prepare while delivering incredible flavor and texture. The result? A golden-brown, gooey masterpiece that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious.

Let’s explore how to make this classic treat step by step, with helpful tips for customizing the recipe to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

For the Monkey Bread:

• 2 cans biscuit dough
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/8 cup ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup butter

For the Simple Glaze:

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

• Open the cans of biscuit dough and break each biscuit into smaller balls, about 3 tablespoons worth of dough per ball.
• Roll each piece into a round ball for even cooking.

Pro Tip: Use a sharp knife to cut the biscuits into uniform pieces to ensure they bake evenly.

2. Create the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cinnamon and sugar, stirring well to mix.
• Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

3. Assemble the Monkey Bread

• Grease a deep-dish loaf pan or bundt pan generously with butter or cooking spray.
• Add a single layer of dough balls to the bottom of the pan.
• Sprinkle 1/8 cup of brown sugar over the layer.
• Continue layering the dough balls, sprinkling the remaining 1/8 cup of brown sugar between layers.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan. Only use as many dough balls as fit comfortably. Extra dough balls can be set aside.

4. Add Butter for Gooey Goodness

• Melt the butter and pour it evenly over the dough layers.
• Sprinkle some of the leftover cinnamon-sugar mixture on top for extra flavor.

5. Bake the Monkey Bread

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the monkey bread for about 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
• Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.

Pro Tip: If the bread isn’t fully cooked, add a few more minutes to the baking time. Oven temperatures can vary.

6. Prepare the Glaze

• While the bread bakes, mix powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but not too runny.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Once baked, allow the Monkey Bread to cool slightly before pouring the glaze over the top.
• Serve warm and enjoy pulling apart each doughy, sweet piece.

The Flavors and Textures of Monkey Bread

• Flavor: The buttery dough, spiced cinnamon-sugar coating, and caramelized brown sugar layers create a sweet, slightly spiced profile. The glaze adds a subtle hint of creaminess.
• Texture: Soft and gooey on the inside, with a slightly crisp, caramelized exterior. The pull-apart design makes every bite fun and satisfying.
• Aroma: The heavenly scent of warm cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter fills the kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation to dig in.

Tips for Customizing Your Monkey Bread

1. Flavor Variations:
   • Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, between the dough layers for extra crunch.
   • Incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for a festive twist.
2. Dough Options:
   • Substitute biscuit dough with pizza dough for a chewier texture.
   • Try crescent roll dough for a lighter, flakier result.
3. Toppings:
   • Drizzle with caramel sauce or melted chocolate for added decadence.
   • Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a touch of elegance.
4. Glaze Alternatives:
   • Swap the simple glaze for cream cheese frosting for a richer topping.
   • Use maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast Delight: Pair with fresh fruit and a cup of coffee for a complete breakfast spread.
• Dessert Centerpiece: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Holiday Brunch Star: Add festive decorations, like colorful sprinkles or a dusting of edible glitter, to make it the star of your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Using pre-made dough simplifies the process, making it accessible for even novice bakers.
2. Family-Friendly: Kids love rolling the dough and coating it in cinnamon-sugar, making it a fun activity for the whole family.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: The pull-apart nature of Monkey Bread makes it perfect for sharing, whether at a brunch, potluck, or family gathering.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Monkey Bread recipe is a timeless favorite that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Its warm, sweet, and gooey appeal makes it a go-to for breakfast, dessert, or any special occasion. Plus, its adaptability means you can customize it to suit your preferences or the season.

So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of this irresistible treat. Whether it’s your first time making Monkey Bread or your fiftieth, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your household. Enjoy!