Monkey Bread

Sticky, sweet, and simple, Monkey Bread is the ultimate breakfast treat that delights both kids and adults alike. This easy recipe makes for a perfect addition to holiday brunches or family gatherings. Its unique pull-apart style not only makes it fun to eat but also allows for customization with various toppings. Whether enjoyed at special occasions or as a comforting weekend breakfast, Monkey Bread is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe can be whipped up in no time.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids love pulling apart the gooey pieces, making this a hit for family breakfasts.
• Versatile Treat: You can easily customize flavors by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or fruits.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, brunches, or just a cozy morning at home.
• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates an irresistible flavor that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Monkey Bread, gather the essential tools needed for this delightful recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan
• Large zip-top bag
• Small saucepan
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: Its unique shape allows the Monkey Bread to bake evenly while providing a stunning presentation.
• Large zip-top bag: Perfect for coating biscuit pieces with sugar and cinnamon without the mess.
• Small saucepan: Essential for melting butter and brown sugar into a smooth mixture that binds everything together.

Ingredients

For this delicious Monkey Bread, you will need:

• 2 tubes refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits each)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ¾ cup butter
• 1 cup brown sugar

How to Make Monkey Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While the oven is heating, liberally grease a 9-cup bundt pan to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Dough

Remove the biscuits from their packaging. Cut each biscuit into four equal pieces using kitchen scissors or a knife.

Step 3: Coat the Biscuit Pieces

Place all biscuit pieces into a large zip-top bag. Add the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Seal the bag tightly and shake it well until all pieces are coated evenly in the sweet mixture.

Step 4: Assemble in Bundt Pan

Open the zip-top bag and pour the coated biscuit pieces directly into your prepared bundt pan. Spread them out evenly so they bake uniformly.

Step 5: Make the Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter along with brown sugar. Stir frequently until smooth and combined. Once ready, pour this mixture over the biscuit pieces in the bundt pan.

Step 6: Bake

Place your bundt pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 35 minutes or until no longer doughy in the center.

Step 7: Cool Slightly

Once baked, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Carefully flip it onto a serving dish to reveal its beautiful shape.

Step 8: Serve

Allow it to cool for another 10 minutes before serving warm. Enjoy your delightful Monkey Bread!

How to Serve Monkey Bread

Monkey bread is a delightful and versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just indulging in a sweet breakfast, these serving suggestions will elevate your monkey bread experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
• Banana Slices: Add banana slices for a creamy texture that complements the sticky bread.

Drizzled with Icing

• Cream Cheese Icing: A smooth cream cheese icing adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with monkey bread.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent touch.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Lighten up the dish with a dollop of fresh whipped cream on each serving.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or cinnamon to your whipped cream for added flavor.

Served Warm

• Warm Serve: Always serve monkey bread warm for the best gooey texture. A quick warm-up in the microwave can refresh leftovers!

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Monkey Bread

To make your monkey bread even more delightful, follow these simple tips:

• Choice of Biscuits: Use buttermilk or flaky biscuit dough for a richer taste and texture.
• Flavor Combinations: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice alongside cinnamon for added depth.
• Layering Technique: Layer biscuit pieces and sugar mixture in the bundt pan for even distribution of flavors.
• Cooling Time: Allowing it to cool slightly before serving helps it set, making it easier to pull apart.

Best Side Dishes for Monkey Bread

Pairing side dishes with your monkey bread enhances the meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some great options:

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs are a classic choice that balances sweetness perfectly.
2. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that contrasts well with the sticky sweetness of monkey bread.
3. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad provides freshness and brightness to your breakfast spread.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy and crunchy side that complements the bread.
5. Sausage Links: Savory sausage links offer a hearty addition that satisfies any appetite.
6. Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses for a sophisticated touch alongside your sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making monkey bread can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing the bundt pan can lead to sticky disasters. Always grease it well to ensure easy removal.
• Overmixing the Biscuit Dough: Mixing too much can make the bread tough. Gently combine just until coated with sugar and cinnamon.
• Using Cold Butter: Melting cold butter can create lumps. Always melt it thoroughly for a smooth glaze over the biscuit pieces.
• Not Checking for Doneness: If unsure, check with a toothpick. It should come out clean; otherwise, bake a little longer to avoid doughy centers.
• Rushing the Cooling Time: Flipping too soon can cause the bread to break apart. Let it cool for at least 5 minutes before inverting it onto a dish.

SAVE THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store monkey bread in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Monkey Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for freezing.
• Monkey bread can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Monkey Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with aluminum foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm slowly while flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Monkey Bread?

Monkey bread is a sweet, sticky pull-apart bread made from biscuit dough rolled in cinnamon and sugar. It’s often baked in a bundt pan.

Can I make Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare monkey bread ahead of time. Just assemble it and refrigerate overnight before baking in the morning.

Is Monkey Bread kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Monkey bread is perfect for kids due to its fun, pull-apart nature and sweet flavor. It’s a great way to get them involved in baking.

How do I customize my Monkey Bread?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor. Experimenting with different spices like nutmeg or ginger can also enhance its taste.

Final Thoughts

Monkey bread is an irresistible breakfast treat that brings joy to both kids and adults alike. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors as you like. Give this recipe a try and enjoy this cozy delight on any occasion!