This Easy Monkey Bread recipe promises a sweet, gooey, and utterly irresistible treat, perfect for any occasion from a cozy family breakfast to elaborate brunches, festive holidays, and delightful entertaining. Prepare to be amazed by how effortlessly you can create this pull-apart masterpiece that everyone will adore!
EASY MONKEY BREAD: YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO A SWEET AND GOOEY DELIGHT
Imagine waking up to the aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your home, promising a breakfast that’s both comforting and exciting. That’s the magic of Easy Monkey Bread! This delightful recipe takes a clever shortcut by using frozen bread dough, ensuring that you get that incredible homemade taste without all the kneading and waiting. Each golden piece is drenched in a rich, buttery, cinnamon-sugar sauce that caramelizes to perfection, making every bite an overwhelmingly delicious experience. If you’re searching for a show-stopping yet simple treat for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, then this Easy Monkey Bread recipe is an absolute must-try.
WHAT IS MONKEY BREAD? A DELICIOUS PULL-APART TRADITION
For those unfamiliar with this irresistible pastry, Monkey Bread is a sweet, sticky cake made from small balls of dough, typically coated in butter, cinnamon, and sugar, then baked together in a Bundt pan. The charm of Monkey Bread lies in its interactive nature; once baked, the individual dough balls can be easily pulled apart with your fingers, making it a fun and communal dish to share. Its name is often attributed to this “picking at it” method of eating, reminiscent of how monkeys might forage for food. Originating in America, this treat has become a beloved classic for special occasions and a comforting staple in many households, known for its soft, fluffy interior and gloriously caramelized exterior. It’s truly a delight for all ages!
WHY THIS EASY MONKEY BREAD RECIPE WILL BECOME A FAMILY FAVORITE
What makes this particular Monkey Bread recipe stand out? It’s the perfect blend of convenience and decadent flavor. By utilizing readily available frozen bread dough, we eliminate the time-consuming steps of mixing, kneading, and proofing from scratch. This means you can achieve that authentic, homemade taste and texture with significantly less effort and a fraction of the time. The secret lies in a rich, buttery cinnamon-sugar sauce that generously coats each piece of dough, creating an incredibly gooey, sweet, and aromatic experience that’s hard to beat. This recipe delivers a consistently delicious result, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings, holiday breakfasts, or any time you crave a comforting, sweet indulgence without the fuss. It’s simply irresistible and guaranteed to bring smiles to faces around the table.
INGREDIENTS SPOTLIGHT: CRAFTING THE PERFECT MONKEY BREAD
Creating this delectable Easy Monkey Bread requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in its irresistible flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Frozen Bread Dough Loaf: The cornerstone of this “easy” recipe. Using a pre-made frozen dough, typically around 16 ounces (or 1 pound), saves significant time and effort. Brands like Rhodes are popular and readily available in the freezer section of most grocery stores, usually near frozen biscuits or pastries. Ensure it’s fully thawed before you begin; package instructions often recommend thawing overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
- Salted Butter: Butter is essential for both flavor and creating that signature gooey texture. Salted butter adds a subtle balance to the sweetness, enhancing the overall taste profile. It will be melted to coat the dough balls, allowing the cinnamon-sugar mixture to adhere perfectly and creating the rich caramel sauce during baking.
- Light Brown Sugar: This is where much of the sweetness and caramelization comes from. Light brown sugar has a finer texture and a hint of molasses flavor, which contributes to the deep, rich, and syrupy coating that makes Monkey Bread so addictive. Ensure it’s packed firmly when measuring for accurate results.
- Ground Cinnamon: The quintessential spice for Monkey Bread, cinnamon infuses the bread with its warm, fragrant, and slightly spicy notes. It pairs beautifully with the brown sugar and butter, creating that classic cozy aroma and taste. Don’t skimp on the cinnamon – it’s a key player!
- Chopped Pecans (Optional Topping): While optional, adding chopped pecans can elevate your Monkey Bread to another level. They provide a delightful nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft, gooey bread. You can sprinkle them over the top before serving or even place some at the bottom of the Bundt pan for a delicious caramel-nut crust.
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT FOR MONKEY BREAD SUCCESS
To ensure your Easy Monkey Bread turns out perfectly, having the right tools on hand is key. You won’t need anything fancy, just a few standard kitchen items:
- Bundt Pan: This is crucial for achieving Monkey Bread’s iconic ring shape and even cooking. A standard 10-12 cup Bundt pan is ideal. Its fluted design allows the gooey sauce to coat all sides of the dough balls beautifully. Make sure to grease it thoroughly!
- Large Knife: For easily cutting the thawed bread dough into manageable pieces.
- Cutting Board: A lightly greased surface is perfect for patting out and cutting the dough without it sticking.
- Medium Bowls (2): One for mixing the cinnamon-sugar and another, perhaps a pie pan or a shallow dish, for dipping the dough balls into melted butter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of butter, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Towel: To cover the Bundt pan during the rising process, creating a warm, protected environment for the dough.
- Cooling Rack: Essential for allowing the Monkey Bread to cool slightly in the pan before inverting, preventing it from becoming soggy.
- Serving Platter: A beautiful way to present your masterpiece!
HOW TO MAKE EASY MONKEY BREAD: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your own irresistible Easy Monkey Bread:
- Thaw the Bread Dough: Begin by thawing a 16-ounce loaf of frozen bread dough. The easiest method is often to place it in a lightly greased glass dish, cover it loosely with plastic wrap, and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can follow the specific thawing instructions on the dough package for quicker countertop methods if time is short. Once fully thawed, transfer the dough onto a lightly greased cutting board and gently pat it into an approximate 8-inch square shape. This makes cutting into uniform pieces much easier.
- Cut and Roll the Dough: Using a large, sharp knife, cut the dough square into 64 small, roughly equal pieces. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly uniform; the charm of Monkey Bread is its rustic, pull-apart nature. Once cut, roll each piece into a small ball. This doesn’t need to be precise, just enough to give them a rounded shape for easy coating.
- Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Whisk them together thoroughly until the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar. This aromatic mixture is what gives Monkey Bread its signature flavor.
- Coat the Dough Balls: Pour the melted salted butter into a shallow dish, such as a pie pan. Take each dough ball, dip it completely into the melted butter, ensuring it’s well-coated, and then roll it generously in the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Make sure each ball is thoroughly covered in the sweet spice blend.
- Layer in the Bundt Pan: Generously grease a standard 10-12 cup Bundt pan. For best results and easy release, consider using a non-stick cooking spray that contains flour. If using optional chopped pecans, sprinkle half of them evenly at the bottom of the pan before adding any dough. Arrange the coated dough balls evenly in layers within the greased Bundt pan. If using more pecans, you can sprinkle the remaining half in between layers or on top.
- Allow to Rise: Cover the Bundt pan loosely with a clean kitchen towel. Place it in a warm, draft-free spot in your kitchen to rise for 1 to 2 hours. The dough should expand significantly, almost reaching the top of the pan when it’s ready to bake. This crucial step ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated and the dough has risen sufficiently, place the Bundt pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 35 minutes. Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the type of pan used; darker coated baking pans tend to cook faster. The Monkey Bread is done when the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center (not hitting the bottom of the pan) comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the Bundt pan from the oven and place it on a wire cooling rack. Allow the Monkey Bread to cool in the pan for exactly 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps the caramel sauce set slightly and prevents the bread from sticking when inverted. After 5 minutes, carefully invert the Bundt pan onto a serving platter. The warm, gooey Monkey Bread will slide out, allowing the delicious caramel sauce to drizzle over the top. Serve warm, optionally with a sprinkle of additional chopped pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
Enjoy this delightful, sweet, and gooey pull-apart treat!
TIPS FOR THE BEST MONKEY BREAD EVERY TIME
Achieving perfect Monkey Bread is simple with a few key tips:
- Thaw Dough Properly: Always ensure your frozen bread dough is fully thawed before beginning. Overnight in the refrigerator is often the most reliable method for an even thaw, preventing a gummy texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the Monkey Bread during the last few minutes of baking. Overbaking can lead to dry bread and a hardened caramel sauce. The top should be golden brown, and the center cooked through.
- Grease Your Pan Generously: This is critical for easy release. Use a non-stick cooking spray with flour, or butter and flour the pan thoroughly, especially if it’s an older Bundt pan. The sticky caramel sauce loves to cling!
- Warm Place for Rising: A warm, draft-free environment is essential for proper rising. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the covered pan in a slightly warmed (but turned off) oven or near a sunny window.
- Personalize Your Topping: While delicious plain, feel free to add your favorite toppings. Chopped nuts, a simple vanilla glaze, or extra caramel sauce can take it to the next level.
MONKEY BREAD VARIATIONS TO SPARK YOUR CREATIVITY
Monkey Bread is a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with these delicious variations:
- Caramel Nut Topping: Enhance the richness by sprinkling a layer of chopped pecans or walnuts at the bottom of the greased Bundt pan before adding the coated dough balls. As it bakes, these nuts will toast and adhere to the caramel sauce, creating an irresistible crunchy topping when inverted.
- Vanilla Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal, let your Monkey Bread cool slightly after baking, then drizzle a simple vanilla icing over the top. A quick glaze can be made by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk or vanilla extract until smooth.
- Extra Caramel Indulgence: If you’re a true caramel lover, gently warm your favorite store-bought caramel sauce and drizzle it generously over the Monkey Bread immediately after turning it out of the pan. The warm bread will absorb some of the sauce, making it even gooier.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Before placing the coated dough balls into the Bundt pan, sprinkle a handful of mini chocolate chips between the layers. They’ll melt into pockets of chocolatey goodness.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of other warm spices to your cinnamon-sugar mixture, such as nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom, for a more complex flavor profile.
- Savory Twist (Carefully!): While traditionally sweet, a truly adventurous baker might explore a savory version using garlic butter, herbs, and cheese for a pull-apart dinner roll. (Note: This is a significant departure from the original recipe, but fun to consider!)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT EASY MONKEY BREAD
Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying Easy Monkey Bread:
Monkey bread is a sweet, pull-apart bread made from small balls of dough coated in butter, cinnamon, and sugar. It’s baked in a Bundt pan, and its name comes from the way you pick at the individual pieces to eat it, much like a monkey. It’s renowned for its sticky, gooey texture and delicious caramel-cinnamon flavor.
The defrosting time for frozen bread dough varies by brand and method. For this recipe, it’s best to follow the directions on the frozen bread dough packaging. Typically, thawing overnight in the refrigerator is recommended for a gradual and even thaw. Place the dough in a lightly greased glass dish and cover it loosely with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. It should be beautifully thawed and ready to use by morning.
Absolutely! Monkey Bread is wonderfully convenient for making ahead. Simply assemble the entire recipe according to the instructions, placing the coated dough balls into the Bundt pan. Then, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 12-18 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the pan from the refrigerator and place it in a warm spot to rise for 1-2 hours until it’s nearly at the rim of the pan. Then, bake as directed. This allows you to enjoy freshly baked Monkey Bread without the early morning rush!
For this recipe, you will want to use a standard Bundt pan. These are typically 10-12 cup capacity pans. This size ensures there’s enough room for the dough to rise properly and for the caramel sauce to distribute evenly.
Yes, this is a very versatile recipe! You can easily customize it. Try placing chopped pecans or walnuts in the bottom of the Bundt pan for a delicious nutty crust. For extra sweetness, drizzle a little vanilla icing or your favorite caramel sauce over the top immediately after turning it out of the pan. Feel free to experiment with other spices or even add chocolate chips between the dough layers for a different flavor profile.
You certainly can! If you prefer to make your own bread dough from scratch, ensure you use approximately the same amount as this recipe calls for, which is 16 ounces or 1 pound of dough. If you’re looking for a fully homemade monkey bread recipe, many resources, including our site, offer guides for that from-scratch experience.
Leftover Monkey Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To store, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, cooled Monkey Bread can be wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container or bag, where it will keep for up to 3 months. To defrost, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight, then move it to the countertop for an hour or so before reheating. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave in 15-second intervals until warm and gooey again.
STORAGE AND MAKE-AHEAD STRATEGIES FOR YOUR MONKEY BREAD
One of the many great things about Easy Monkey Bread is how well it stores and how easily it can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for entertaining or busy mornings. Here’s how to manage your delicious leftovers and plan ahead:
Make-Ahead Instructions:
Preparing Monkey Bread the night before is a fantastic way to enjoy a warm, fresh treat without the morning rush. Simply follow all the assembly steps: thaw your dough, cut and roll the balls, coat them in butter and cinnamon-sugar, and arrange them in your greased Bundt pan. Once assembled, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out. Place it in the refrigerator for 12 to 18 hours. When you’re ready to bake the next morning, remove the pan from the refrigerator and let it sit in a warm spot on your countertop for 1 to 2 hours. This crucial step allows the dough to rise sufficiently before baking. Once risen, proceed with baking as per the recipe instructions, and you’ll have a freshly baked, gooey delight ready in no time!
Storing Leftovers:
- Room Temperature: If you anticipate finishing the Monkey Bread within a couple of days, it can be stored at room temperature. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, Monkey Bread will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Again, ensure it’s properly covered to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing: Monkey Bread freezes beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap individual portions or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, defrost overnight in the refrigerator, then let it come to room temperature on the counter. Reheat in the microwave in 15-second intervals until warm and gooey.
CONCLUSION: YOUR NEW FAVORITE SWEET TREAT
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to crafting the most delightful and easy Monkey Bread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and guarantees a rewarding outcome. The combination of soft, pillowy dough, rich caramel sauce, and warm cinnamon makes for an unforgettable experience that brings joy to any table. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and prepare to pull apart a truly exceptional treat that will undoubtedly become a treasured favorite for you and your loved ones!
WANT MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES?
- Pecan Pie Cinnamon Rolls
- Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
- Old Fashioned Bread Pudding
- No-Starter Amish Friendship Bread
- Cinnamon Roll Quick Bread
- Snickerdoodle Skillet Biscuits
Easy Monkey Bread (with Bread Dough)
Serve up this Easy Monkey Bread for a sweet and gooey treat – perfect for breakfast, brunches, holidays, and entertaining!
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15 minutes
30 minutes
1 hour 30 minutes
2 hours 15 minutes
12
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 16 ounce loaf frozen bread dough, thawed in the refrigerator overnight
- ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 Tablespoons chopped pecans, optional topping
Instructions
- Thaw a loaf of frozen bread dough (just follow the back of the package for instructions on how best to do it). Once thawed, turn out bread onto a lightly greased cutting board and pat gently into an 8 inch square.
- Using a large knife, cut it into 64 pieces. Roll them into balls, but don’t worry if they aren’t perfect or exactly the same size.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Pour the melted butter into a dish with a low rim (like a pie pan.) Dip the dough balls into the butter, coating well, and then roll into the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.
- Place evenly in rows in a greased bundt pan. I like to spray the bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray with flour in it.
- Cover the pan with a towel and place in a warm place to rise for 1-2 hours. It should rise to almost the rim of the pan.
- Bake at 350F degrees for 20-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown. (Note that dark coated baking pans will cook faster.)
- Cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 5 minutes (only) and then turn onto a serving platter. Serve warm with a sprinkle of chopped pecans (optional).
Notes
- You can make your own homemade bread dough as long as it is 16 ounces.
- Add some chopped pecans to this to give it a little crunch.
- This can be made ahead of time, see my tips above.
- This can be frozen, see above on how to do that.
- I used Rhodes frozen bread dough which can be found in bags near where the frozen biscuits are located in the freezer section of your grocery store.
- To thaw the bread you can either thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter. Just follow the back of the package for the instructions and you can decide how you want to thaw.
Breads, Breakfast, Dessert
American
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 36g
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Protein: 2g
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Fat: 10g
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Sodium: 244mg
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 18g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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