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This classic Monkey Bread recipe transforms a homemade dough into a gooey, pull-apart treat that's perfect for family gatherings or weekend breakfasts. The warm cinnamon-sugar coating creates an irresistible caramelized exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
I first made this monkey bread for a Christmas morning tradition, and now my family refuses to celebrate any special occasion without it. The way everyone gathers around to pull off pieces makes it as much about the experience as the taste.
Ingredients
- Whole milk: Provides richness and activates the yeast for proper rising
- Active dry yeast: Creates the perfect fluffy texture and can be easily substituted with instant yeast for faster rising times
- All purpose flour: Offers reliable structure while remaining tender
- Butter: In both dough and coating creates unmatched richness and helps develop the caramel coating
- Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and deep molasses notes to complement the cinnamon
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and that classic aroma that makes this treat irresistible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the yeast mixture:
- Combine warmed milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast in a measuring cup and whisk until fully incorporated. This temperature range is crucial for activating the yeast without killing it. The mixture should become slightly foamy after a few minutes.
- Mix the dough:
- In your stand mixer bowl with dough hook attachment, combine flour and salt before slowly adding the milk mixture on low speed. This gradual incorporation prevents flour from flying everywhere and ensures even hydration. Once combined, increase to medium speed and mix for a full 7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and develops elasticity.
- First rise:
- Shape the sticky dough into a ball on a lightly floured surface, then place in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about one hour. This develops flavor and creates the light, airy texture.
- Prepare coating and pan:
- While the dough rises, melt butter in one bowl and combine sugars and cinnamon in another. Spray your bundt pan thoroughly with cooking spray, making sure to coat all crevices to prevent sticking.
- Form dough balls:
- After the first rise, divide dough into 64 pieces and roll each into a ball. This uniform size ensures even cooking. Dip each ball first in melted butter, then generously coat in the cinnamon sugar mixture before arranging in the prepared bundt pan.
- Second rise and baking:
- Cover the filled pan with plastic wrap and allow to rise until nearly doubled, filling about three quarters of the pan. This second rise creates even more tenderness. Pour any remaining melted butter over the top just before baking at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
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The cinnamon sugar coating is truly what makes this recipe special. I remember watching my grandmother make a similar version when I was young, and she always told me the secret was being generous with the cinnamon. Now when I make it for my own family, that familiar smell instantly brings back memories of those special mornings in her kitchen.
Make Ahead Options
This monkey bread can be prepared through the assembly stage and refrigerated overnight before the second rise. Simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator. The next morning, remove from the refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature for about 45 minutes before baking. This makes it perfect for holiday mornings when you want to minimize kitchen time.
Flavor Variations
While the classic cinnamon sugar version is beloved, this recipe serves as a wonderful base for creative variations. Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts between layers for added crunch. Orange zest mixed into the sugar coating brings a bright citrus note. For a decadent version, add mini chocolate chips or a cream cheese filling to some of the dough balls. Each variation maintains the fun pull apart nature while offering new flavor experiences.
Serving Suggestions
Monkey bread is delicious on its own but truly shines when served warm with accompanying sides. A simple vanilla glaze drizzled over the top adds another layer of sweetness. For brunch gatherings, serve alongside fresh fruit and coffee for a complete spread. My family particularly enjoys it with a side of vanilla ice cream for dessert, allowing the warm bread to slightly melt the ice cream.
The Origin Story
Monkey bread gets its playful name from the way it's eaten. Pulling apart the pieces with your fingers resembles how monkeys eat by picking and pulling at their food. The recipe became popular in American households during the 1950s when bundt pans were increasingly common in home kitchens. Though various versions exist with refrigerated biscuit dough, this scratch version honors the traditional preparation method that delivers superior texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of yeast is best for Monkey Bread?
Both active dry yeast and rapid rise yeast work well. Rapid rise yeast reduces the rise time significantly.
- → Can I make Monkey Bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and assemble the bread a day before. Refrigerate overnight and bake fresh the next day.
- → How should I store Monkey Bread?
Keep tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze individual servings for up to 3 months.
- → How can I reheat leftover Monkey Bread?
Reheat in a 250°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave individual servings in 30-second intervals until warm.
- → Can I customize the sugar coating?
Absolutely! You can add nutmeg, cardamom, or even chopped nuts to the coating for extra flavor and texture.