Monkey Bread (From Scratch!)

There’s something undeniably delightful about the warm, gooey, and sweet nature of Monkey Bread. This pull-apart treat is a nostalgic favorite that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy mornings at home. It’s the perfect blend of soft, fluffy dough and a rich, buttery cinnamon-sugar coating that will have everyone reaching for just one more piece. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Monkey Bread (From Scratch!), which you can easily whip up in your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Monkey Bread is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort for maximum reward. It’s a beautiful centerpiece for brunches, a fun dessert for family dinners, or simply a treat to enjoy with your morning coffee. This recipe is made entirely from scratch, ensuring that every bite is as fresh and delicious as possible. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to experiment with different flavors and fillings. Once you master the basics, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Ingredient List

To make this scrumptious Monkey Bread, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened – For rich flavor in the dough.
• 1 cup (240ml) milk, warm (about 110 degrees F) – Helps to activate the yeast.
• 1/3 cup (80ml) water, warm (about 110 degrees F) – Adds moisture to the dough.
• 1/3 cup (50g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough.
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted – For coating the dough pieces.
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast – The leavening agent that makes the bread rise.
• 3 cups (390g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for work surface – The base of our dough.
• 2 teaspoons salt – Enhances the flavor.
• 1 cup (198g) light brown sugar – For the sweet cinnamon coating.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Adds that warm, comforting spice.
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted – For drenching the dough pieces.
• 1 cup (113g) powdered sugar – For the sweet glaze.
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk – To thin the glaze.

Must-Have Equipment

Before you dive into the baking process, gather these essential tools:

• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensure accurate measurements for the perfect bread.
• Rolling pin – To roll out the dough if needed.
• Bundt pan – The classic shape for Monkey Bread.
• Kitchen towel – To cover the dough while it rises.
• Whisk – For mixing the glaze.

Cook Monkey Bread (From Scratch!) Like This

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your delicious Monkey Bread:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Add Butter and Flour

Once the yeast is foamy, add the softened butter, 2 cups of flour, and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, a little at a time, until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar

While the dough is rising, mix together the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a log and cut it into about 24 equal pieces.

Step 7: Coat the Dough Pieces

Dip each piece into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Layer the coated pieces in a greased Bundt pan.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the Bundt pan with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until the dough rises to the top of the pan.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bake the Monkey Bread for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped.

Step 10: Make the Glaze

While the bread is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a bowl to create a smooth glaze.

Step 11: Glaze and Serve

Once the Monkey Bread is out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Invert the pan onto a serving plate, and drizzle the glaze over the warm bread. Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey goodness!

Season-by-Season Upgrades

Feel free to upgrade your Monkey Bread according to the seasons:

• Fall: Add chopped apples or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
• Winter: Incorporate cranberries and orange zest for a festive flavor.
• Spring: Use fresh berries to add a pop of color and flavor.
• Summer: Mix in some chopped peaches or cherries for a refreshing bite.

Problems & Prevention

Here are some common issues you might face while making Monkey Bread and how to prevent them:

• Dense bread: Ensure your yeast is fresh, and allow the dough to rise until doubled in size.
• Too sticky dough: Add flour gradually while kneading to achieve the right texture.
• Burnt tops: Cover the top with foil if it starts to brown too quickly while baking.
• Difficulty removing from the pan: Ensure the bundt pan is well-greased before adding the dough pieces.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Monkey Bread fresh:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm again. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked dough pieces after coating them in butter and cinnamon sugar. Just thaw and let them rise again before baking when you’re ready to enjoy them!

Monkey Bread (From Scratch!) FAQs

Can I make Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape it into pieces, then refrigerate it overnight. The next day, let it rise again before baking.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Absolutely! You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or even use a sugar alternative for a healthier option.

What can I add to the dough for extra flavor?

Feel free to add vanilla extract, nutmeg, or even chopped nuts to the dough for added flavor and texture.

Is it okay to make Monkey Bread gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has xanthan gum for the best texture.

Bring It to the Table

As you serve your freshly baked Monkey Bread, watch as your family and friends gather around the table, drawn in by the sweet aroma and the promise of gooey goodness. It’s perfect for sharing, so encourage everyone to pull apart their own pieces, creating moments of joy and laughter with every bite.

Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or simply a treat for a weekday morning, Monkey Bread (From Scratch!) is sure to impress. So roll up those sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to pull apart some deliciousness!

Monkey Bread (From Scratch!)

This Monkey Bread is a warm, gooey delight! A nostalgic treat with a rich cinnamon-sugar coating that everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup milk warm (about 110 degrees F)
• 1/3 cup water warm (about 110 degrees F)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 3 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for work surface
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk to thin the glaze

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling Pin
• Bundt pan
• Kitchen Towel
• Whisk

Method

 

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Once the yeast is foamy, add the softened butter, 2 cups of flour, and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, a little at a time, until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. While the dough is rising, mix together the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a log and cut it into about 24 equal pieces.
7. Dip each piece into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Layer the coated pieces in a greased Bundt pan.
8. Cover the Bundt pan with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until the dough rises to the top of the pan.
9. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bake the Monkey Bread for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped.
10. While the bread is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a bowl to create a smooth glaze.
11. Once the Monkey Bread is out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Invert the pan onto a serving plate, and drizzle the glaze over the warm bread. Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey goodness!

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Freeze unbaked dough pieces after coating them in butter and cinnamon sugar for later use.