Monkey Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, interactive, and delicious treat to enjoy with family or friends, look no further than this Monkey Bread recipe! Soft, gooey, and sweet, this pull-apart bread is perfect for any gathering or brunch. With its irresistible cinnamon sugar coating and buttery goodness, it’s no wonder this treat is a classic. Let’s dive into the details and get baking!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Monkey Bread recipe stands out for its perfect balance of flavor and texture. The combination of warm, fresh-baked bread with cinnamon and sugar creates a delightful treat that you can’t resist. The use of Fleischmann’s RapidRise Yeast allows for a quicker rise, making it ideal for those who may not have all day to bake. Plus, the melting butter and brown sugar create a rich glaze that coats each piece, making every bite a sweet experience.

Gather These Ingredients

To create this fluffy and sweet Monkey Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 to 3 ½ cups (403g – 465g) all-purpose flour – This is the base of your bread.
• ½ cup (50g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough.
• 1 packet Fleischmann’s RapidRise Yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons) – Helps the dough rise quickly.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
• ¾ cup (177ml) milk (whole, 2%, 1% or nonfat) – Provides moisture and richness.
• ¼ cup (59ml) water – Helps to activate the yeast.
• ½ cup (57g) unsalted butter, sliced into tablespoons – Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
• 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together.
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – For coating the dough pieces.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – Adds that classic cinnamon flavor.
• ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar – Provides a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter – For drizzling over the finished bread.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – For mixing with the sugars.

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you start making your Monkey Bread, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Mixing bowls – For combining the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure you have the right quantities.
• 9-inch bundt pan – This will shape your Monkey Bread perfectly.
• Whisk – For mixing dry ingredients together.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – To mix the dough.
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel – For covering the dough while it rises.
• Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot items!

How to Prepare Monkey Bread Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create your own Monkey Bread:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and milk. Sprinkle the Fleischmann’s RapidRise Yeast over the liquid and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to go.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add the melted butter and the activated yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Beat in the egg until everything is well combined. If the dough seems too sticky, gradually add more flour until it forms a soft dough.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook on low speed for this step.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30-40 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the dough is rising, in a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Tear off small pieces (about the size of a golf ball) and roll each piece into a ball. Dip each ball into melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 8: Layer in Bundt Pan

Place the coated dough balls into the greased bundt pan, layering them as you go. Once all the dough is in the pan, drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top.

Step 9: Second Rise

Cover the bundt pan with a kitchen towel and let it rise again in a warm place for about 20-30 minutes, or until the dough has risen to the top of the pan.

Step 10: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Monkey Bread for 30-35 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 11: Cool & Serve

Remove the Monkey Bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Serve warm, pulling apart pieces with your hands. Enjoy the gooey goodness!

Fit It to Your Goals

If you want to customize your Monkey Bread or make it fit specific dietary needs, consider these options:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Use plant-based butter, a flax egg instead of a regular egg, and almond or soy milk.
• Less Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar and brown sugar by half for a less sweet version.
• Add-ins: Incorporate chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips into the dough for extra flavor.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making your Monkey Bread, keep an eye out for these common issues:

• Dough Not Rising: Ensure your yeast is fresh; if it’s old, it may not activate properly.
• Too Sticky Dough: If your dough is too sticky after mixing, gradually add flour until it reaches the right consistency.
• Burnt Bottom: If the bottom of the bread is too dark, consider placing a baking sheet underneath the bundt pan to catch any drips.
• Dry Monkey Bread: Make sure not to overbake. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to save some for later, Monkey Bread is freezer-friendly! Here’s how to do it:

• Cool Completely: Allow your Monkey Bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap Well: Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer bag.
• Store Up to 3 Months: You can keep it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast instead of RapidRise yeast, but you will need to activate it in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding it to the dough.

How do I know when my Monkey Bread is done baking?

The Monkey Bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped. You can also insert a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Can I make Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise the night before. Cover it and place it in the fridge overnight, and then bake it the next day.

What can I serve with Monkey Bread?

Monkey Bread pairs well with a variety of dips, like cream cheese frosting, chocolate sauce, or even a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.

Weekend Projects

If you love this Monkey Bread recipe, check out these other delightful weekend projects:

• Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic treat that never goes out of style.
• Fluffy Pancakes – Perfect for a brunch gathering.
• Vegan Brownies – Decadent and chocolaty, these brownies are a must-try.
• Vanilla Cupcakes – Light and fluffy, perfect for any celebration.

Final Thoughts

This Monkey Bread recipe is not only simple to make but also a joy to share. There’s something nostalgic and heartwarming about pulling apart pieces of warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated bread, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings, brunches, or just a cozy night in. The aroma of baking bread fills the home with warmth and comfort, making it a delightful experience from start to finish.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create this delicious Monkey Bread that everyone will love. Happy baking!