Monkey bread is a delightful, pull-apart pastry that brings joy to any gathering. This sweet, gooey bread is made by rolling dough balls in cinnamon sugar and baking them together in a bundt pan. As it bakes, the dough becomes soft and fluffy, creating a deliciously sticky treat that’s perfect for sharing. Whether for brunch or dessert, monkey bread is sure to impress with its charming presentation and mouthwatering flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- Cooking spray
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 12 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a baking time of 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece) contains approximately 180 calories, 7g fat, 27g carbohydrates, and 3g protein. Note that nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar; add yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and melted butter to the flour; mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a separate bowl, mix cinnamon and brown sugar.
- Divide the dough into small balls and coat each in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Layer the dough balls in a greased bundt pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, you can substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar, and for a dairy-free version, use almond milk and coconut oil.
Serving and Pairings
Monkey bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. It can also be served warm with a drizzle of icing or alongside fresh fruit for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F until warm. Monkey bread can be frozen for up to 3 months; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not letting the dough rise long enough can result in dense bread.
- Overbaking will make the bread dry; keep an eye on it!
- Using cold milk can prevent the yeast from activating properly.
- Not greasing the bundt pan can lead to sticking.
- Using too much flour during kneading can make the bread tough.
Helpful Tips
- For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough.
- Use a mixture of spices for a unique flavor; try nutmeg or cardamom.
- Let the bread cool slightly before removing it from the pan for easier serving.
- Serve with a side of warm caramel sauce for dipping.
FAQs
What is monkey bread?
Monkey bread is a sweet, sticky pastry made by baking pieces of dough rolled in cinnamon sugar together in a bundt pan, resulting in a pull-apart treat.
Can I make monkey bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to rise before baking the next day.
Is monkey bread gluten-free?
You can make gluten-free monkey bread by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I know when monkey bread is done?
Monkey bread is done when it is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can monkey bread be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake it just before serving to enjoy it warm.
Conclusion
Monkey bread is a delightful dish that brings people together, whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Its sweet, gooey, and pull-apart nature makes it a fun and interactive treat, perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe to create a memorable dessert that everyone will love!
Monkey Bread
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk 110°F
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar; add yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and melted butter to the flour; mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a separate bowl, mix cinnamon and brown sugar.
- Divide the dough into small balls and coat each in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Layer the dough balls in a greased bundt pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
