Monkey Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Monkey Bread is a pull-apart dessert made from soft, cinnamon-sugar coated dough balls baked together in a bundt pan. Each bite is gooey, buttery, and sweet, making it a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Loved by kids and adults alike, Monkey Bread is easy to share and irresistibly fun to eat with your hands.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade dough)granulated sugarground cinnamonunsalted butterbrown sugarvanilla extract (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan generously with butter or non-stick spray.

In a bowl, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon.

Cut each biscuit into quarters and roll each piece in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until coated.

Layer the coated dough pieces in the prepared bundt pan.

In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar until combined. Add vanilla extract if using.

Pour the butter-sugar mixture evenly over the dough pieces in the pan.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Let the bread cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate.

Serve warm and pull apart to enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 8–10 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 35–40 minutesCooling time: 10 minutesTotal time: 1 hour

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts between dough layers for crunch.

Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.

Drizzle with cream cheese glaze after baking for an extra indulgent touch.

Use homemade dough for a fully from-scratch version.

Swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a seasonal version.

storage/reheating

Store Monkey Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.To reheat, microwave individual portions for 15–20 seconds or warm the entire loaf in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

What if I don’t have a bundt pan?

You can use a loaf pan or a 9×13 baking dish, though baking time may vary.

Can I freeze Monkey Bread?

Yes, once baked and cooled, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.

Why is it called Monkey Bread?

The name likely comes from the way it’s eaten—by pulling apart pieces with your fingers, similar to how monkeys might eat.

Is it a breakfast or dessert?

Both! It’s commonly served as a breakfast treat but works great as a dessert too.

Can I use homemade dough?

Absolutely, just ensure it’s a soft, enriched dough like brioche for best texture.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can cut back slightly, but the gooey caramel effect comes from the sugar content.

Can I add fruit?

Yes, diced apples or raisins can be added between layers for extra flavor.

How do I know it’s done?

The top should be golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center should come out clean.

What can I serve it with?

Pair it with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Conclusion

Monkey Bread is a warm, sticky, and utterly delicious treat that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re serving it for brunch or indulging in a sweet craving, this pull-apart favorite is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit—especially when enjoyed fresh from the oven.

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