Easy Monkey Bread Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Monkey bread, also known as pull-apart bread, is a sweet, sticky, and utterly irresistible treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This easy monkey bread recipe will guide you through creating a delicious, crowd-pleasing delight that everyone will love. Let’s dive in!
What is Monkey Bread?
Monkey bread gets its name from the way you eat it – by picking off gooey, caramelized pieces, much like a monkey! It's made from small balls of dough coated in cinnamon sugar and baked together in a bundt pan, creating a sticky, sweet masterpiece.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 2 cans (16.3 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- Optional: 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Step-by-Step Monkey Bread Recipe
1. Prepare the Dough
Open the cans of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. This is easiest done with kitchen shears or a sharp knife. Place the biscuit pieces into a large bowl.
2. Mix Cinnamon Sugar
In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Mix well until thoroughly combined. Pour this mixture over the biscuit pieces in the large bowl.
3. Coat the Dough
Toss the biscuit pieces in the cinnamon sugar mixture until each piece is well coated. Ensure no biscuit piece is left unloved by the sweet, spicy goodness!
4. Prepare the Pan
Melt the butter in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the brown sugar until the mixture is smooth. If using nuts, sprinkle them evenly over the bottom of a bundt pan. Pour the butter and brown sugar mixture over the nuts.
5. Arrange the Dough
Arrange the coated biscuit pieces evenly over the brown sugar mixture in the bundt pan. You can layer them randomly, ensuring they are relatively evenly distributed.
6. Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the monkey bread for 30-35 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and no longer doughy in the center. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. Cool and Invert
Let the monkey bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Place a serving plate over the top of the bundt pan and carefully invert the monkey bread onto the plate.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the monkey bread warm. Let everyone pull apart the sticky, sweet pieces and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Monkey Bread
- Use Fresh Dough: Ensure your biscuit dough is fresh for the best rise and texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can result in dry monkey bread. Keep a close eye on it in the last few minutes of baking.
- Add Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like chocolate chips, caramel bits, or even savory herbs and cheese for a unique twist.
Why This Recipe Works
This monkey bread recipe is foolproof because it uses readily available ingredients and simple steps. The combination of cinnamon sugar, melted butter, and brown sugar creates a luscious caramel coating that perfectly complements the soft, fluffy biscuit dough. It’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion!
Get Creative with Your Monkey Bread
- Savory Monkey Bread: Experiment with savory flavors by adding garlic, herbs, and cheese to the dough.
- Chocolate Monkey Bread: Incorporate cocoa powder and chocolate chips into the cinnamon sugar mixture for a chocolatey delight.
With this easy monkey bread recipe, you’re ready to create a delightful treat that will impress your friends and family. Whether it's a cozy weekend brunch or a festive holiday gathering, monkey bread is always a welcome addition. Enjoy the sweet, sticky goodness!