Homemade Monkey Bread

Monkey bread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. With its gooey, cinnamon-sugar flavor and fun pull-apart style, Homemade Monkey Bread brings joy to any gathering. Whether it’s a cozy family brunch or a festive holiday celebration, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part? It’s easy to make and allows for endless variations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious treat.
• Gooey Goodness: Each piece is coated in buttery cinnamon-sugar, making every bite irresistibly tasty.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save leftovers for later—Monkey Bread tastes great any time!
• Fun for Everyone: The pull-apart style invites sharing and makes for a fun interactive eating experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an after-dinner dessert, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any event.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Homemade Monkey Bread a success, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you need to prepare before diving into the recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (or large mixing bowl)
• Dough hook or paddle attachment
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone spatula
• Bundt pan
• Medium bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading easier and more efficient, ensuring your dough reaches the perfect consistency.
• Bundt pan: Provides the iconic shape that allows for even baking and makes serving easy.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to whip up your Homemade Monkey Bread:

• 1 and 1/2 cups (360ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
• 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star (1 standard packet)
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 cups (625g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, divided
• 1 and 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
• 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2/3 cup (130g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
• 3 Tablespoons (45ml) whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How to Make Homemade Monkey Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Whisk together the warm milk, yeast, and sugar in the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or paddle attachment. Cover and let sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
2. Add the eggs, melted butter, salt, and one cup of flour. Beat on low speed for about 30 seconds, then scrape down the sides of the bowl. Gradually add in the remaining flour while mixing on medium speed until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Continue kneading in your mixer for an additional 5 to 7 minutes or knead by hand on a floured surface until smooth. If sticky, add flour gradually as needed until slightly tacky but not dry.
2. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—approximately one to two hours.

Step 3: Prepare Bundt Pan & Fill with Dough Balls

1. Grease a Bundt pan generously with butter or nonstick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, melt half a cup of unsalted butter. In another bowl, mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon.
3. Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air. Roll small pieces into balls about 1.25 inches in diameter. Dip each ball into melted butter followed by rolling in cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them neatly into your prepared Bundt pan.

Step 4: Final Rise & Bake

1. Cover the filled Bundt pan again with plastic wrap or towel and let rest for about 20 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Melt remaining butter in a bowl; whisk together with brown sugar and vanilla extract before pouring it evenly over the shaped monkey bread.
3. Bake for about 35 to 45 minutes until golden brown on top; cover loosely with foil if browning too quickly.

Step 5: Cool & Serve

1. Allow cooling in the pan for about five minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.
2. Drizzle icing made from confectioners’ sugar mixed with whole milk and vanilla extract over top before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Homemade Monkey Bread! It’s best served fresh but can be stored properly for future enjoyment as well!

How to Serve Homemade Monkey Bread

Homemade monkey bread is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this gooey cinnamon treat is sure to please everyone. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your monkey bread experience.

Breakfast Delight

• Pair slices of monkey bread with fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with a side of Greek yogurt to add creaminess and protein to your breakfast spread.

Dessert Treat

• Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the top for an indulgent dessert that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor contrast.

Family Style

• Place the entire Bundt pan on the table and let guests pull apart their own pieces for a fun and interactive dining experience.
• Offer assorted dipping sauces like caramel or vanilla icing alongside the monkey bread for added variety.

On-the-Go Snacks

• Pack small portions in airtight containers for an easy snack during picnics or road trips.
• Include mini muffins as part of a brunch spread or party platter to complement other treats.

How to Perfect Homemade Monkey Bread

Creating the perfect homemade monkey bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your monkey bread turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising. Check expiration dates before using it.
• Don’t Skip Kneading: Proper kneading develops gluten, resulting in a fluffier texture. Aim for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth.
• Let It Rise Properly: Allow enough time for the dough to rise until double in size. This step is crucial for achieving the right fluffy consistency.
• Coat Generously: Make sure each dough ball is well-coated in butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture for maximum flavor and sweetness.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your monkey bread while baking; cover it with foil if it browns too quickly to prevent burning.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your monkey bread right after it’s cooled slightly.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Monkey Bread

Complementing your homemade monkey bread with side dishes can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options you might consider pairing.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can add brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the monkey bread.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and can make your meal more filling, perfect for breakfast gatherings.
3. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add a savory element that contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors of the monkey bread.
4. Oven-Baked Bacon or Turkey Bacon: A side of crispy bacon provides a satisfying crunch that complements the soft texture of the monkey bread.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthy option that adds creaminess and crunch alongside your sweet treat.
6. Coffee or Tea: Hot beverages like coffee or herbal tea provide warmth and comfort, making them ideal companions to your delicious monkey bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help elevate your Homemade Monkey Bread to perfection. Here are some tips:

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your milk is warmed to about 110°F (43°C) before mixing. Cold ingredients can prevent the yeast from activating.
• Not kneading enough: Insufficient kneading leads to dense bread. Aim for at least 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Skipping the rise time: Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size is crucial for a light texture. Be patient; this step can take 1-2 hours.
• Overcrowding the Bundt pan: If you make too many dough balls, they may not bake properly. Stick to 40-45 balls for best results.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and place the pan on a lower rack to avoid burning the top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Homemade Monkey Bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Homemade Monkey Bread

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Homemade Monkey Bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Monkey Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 20 seconds. Keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Homemade Monkey Bread:

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with half and see how it turns out!

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size. You can also poke it gently; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

Can I make Homemade Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking.

What variations can I try with Homemade Monkey Bread?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits into the dough or filling for extra flavor!

How should I serve Homemade Monkey Bread?

This dish is best served warm and fresh. Drizzle with icing and encourage everyone to pull apart their own pieces!

Final Thoughts

Homemade Monkey Bread is not only delicious but also adaptable! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite flavors or ingredients. Whether enjoyed as breakfast or dessert, this treat brings joy and warmth to any table—so give it a try!