Monkey bread is the ultimate treat for any gathering, turning an ordinary breakfast or brunch into a celebration. This gooey, cinnamon-sugar delight is always the star of the table, disappearing faster than you can say “delicious!” At family get-togethers, we love pulling apart the soft, buttery pieces with our hands, savoring the sweet and spicy flavors together. It’s more than just food; it’s a cherished tradition that brings everyone closer.
The beauty of monkey bread lies in its simplicity. No need for fancy techniques or hours of preparation. Using canned buttermilk biscuit dough as a shortcut, you can achieve that classic pull-apart texture without the fuss. This recipe is quick to put together, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.
There’s something magical about this recipe that makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a festive holiday brunch. With its warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness and golden brown caramel glaze, it’s hard to resist just one piece—so be prepared to make a second batch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Monkey bread is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Its irresistible combination of soft, cinnamon-coated dough and gooey caramel will make it the highlight of your meal. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients like nuts or dried fruits. The best part? It’s a no-fail recipe that delivers a stunning, indulgent treat with minimal effort.
Ingredients Overview
This recipe uses canned buttermilk biscuit dough, which makes it perfect for busy mornings or when you’re in need of a quick dessert. The real magic happens with the cinnamon-sugar coating and buttery brown sugar glaze, turning simple ingredients into a show-stopping dish. You can easily customize it by adding chopped nuts, dried fruits, or spices for a unique twist. All you need is a Bundt pan, and you’re good to go!
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 12-cup Bundt pan by greasing it generously with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures the monkey bread will come out easily after baking. Set the pan aside for now, so it’s ready for the dough.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Stir the ingredients together until well mixed. This cinnamon-sugar blend will coat each piece of dough and add flavor.
Step 3:
Open the cans of buttermilk biscuit dough and separate each biscuit. Cut each biscuit into 6 even pieces to make bite-sized dough portions. Add the pieces to the cinnamon-sugar mixture and toss gently to coat them thoroughly.
Step 4:
Transfer the coated biscuit pieces into the prepared Bundt pan. Spread them out evenly, stacking them as you go. Be sure the dough is evenly distributed for consistent baking and caramel absorption.
Step 5:
In a small saucepan, melt ¾ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in ¾ cup of packed light brown sugar, mixing until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Step 6:
Pour the buttery brown sugar mixture evenly over the coated dough in the Bundt pan. Ensure every piece of dough gets covered with the syrup, which will melt into a gooey, caramel glaze while baking.
Step 7:
Bake the monkey bread for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the caramel bubbles around the edges. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully flip it onto a plate, serve warm, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Make sure each dough piece is thoroughly coated in cinnamon-sugar for maximum flavor in every bite.
- For extra crunch, toss in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans before baking.
- Add a fruity twist by mixing in dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apples for a burst of sweetness.
- If you prefer a more complex flavor, experiment with adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Variations to Try
- Swap out cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg to create a seasonal twist.
- Add chopped apples or pears for a fruity version of this delicious treat.
- Mix in walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips for a satisfying nutty or indulgent touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use homemade biscuit dough for this recipe?
Yes, homemade dough works well, but store-bought buttermilk biscuit dough saves time, making it perfect for a quick brunch.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it unbaked. In the morning, just pop it in the oven for a freshly baked treat.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F or microwave individual servings.
Can I add other spices to the cinnamon sugar?
Absolutely! Try adding nutmeg, cardamom, or even a little pumpkin pie spice to add a new flavor twist.
Is there a way to make monkey bread without a Bundt pan?
If you don’t have a Bundt pan, you can use a round cake pan or loaf pan, but keep an eye on the baking time.
How to Store and Reheat
For the best results, enjoy monkey bread fresh out of the oven. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the bread in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave individual servings for a few seconds.
Conclusion
Monkey bread is a fun, irresistible treat that never fails to impress. With its sweet, cinnamon-sugar flavor and gooey caramel glaze, it’s the perfect addition to any brunch or breakfast. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, thanks to the use of canned biscuit dough. You’ll get all the joy of homemade monkey bread without the hassle.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this recipe guarantees a hit every time. It’s a fun dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, making memories one pull-apart piece at a time.
Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest @Ava Foodie for more irresistible recipes like this! Your next breakfast or brunch just got sweeter with this simple yet scrumptious monkey bread.
