Are you looking for a fun and scrumptious dessert or snack that will please both kids and adults? Look no further than delicious, gooey monkey bread made in a crock pot. This delightful treat combines tender pieces of dough coated in cinnamon and sugar, all melted together with rich buttery goodness. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make! Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a cozy family gathering, or just craving something sweet, this guide will walk you through the process of making monkey bread in your slow cooker.
What is Monkey Bread?
Monkey bread, also known as pull-apart bread, is a sweet, sticky pastry that originated in the United States. Its name is thought to come from the playful way people pull apart the pieces of bread to eat, much like how monkeys groom one another. Traditionally, monkey bread is made from biscuit dough rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture and baked until golden and gooey. In this recipe, we’ll adapt this classic treat for a crock pot, allowing for a wonderfully moist and tender outcome.
Why Choose a Crock Pot for Monkey Bread?
Using a crock pot to make monkey bread offers several advantages:
- Convenience: You can set it and forget it! Simply prepare the ingredients, set the slow cooker, and continue with your day.
- Moisture: The slow-cooking process ensures that the bread retains its moisture, resulting in a soft, tender texture that’s hard to resist.
- Versatility: You can customize your monkey bread with various toppings and fillings, allowing you to experiment with flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the perfect crock pot monkey bread, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated biscuit dough | 2 cans (16.3 oz each) |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons |
| Butter | ½ cup (1 stick), melted |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Optional add-ins (e.g., nuts, chocolate chips) | ½ cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Monkey Bread in a Crock Pot
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions for a fantastic monkey bread experience.
Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
To start, you’ll want to prepare your refrigerated biscuit dough. Open the cans and cut each biscuit into quarters. This will help achieve the pull-apart effect when the bread is finished.
Tip:
To make cutting easier, refrigerate the dough for a bit before cutting. Cold dough tends to hold its shape better!
Step 2: Mix Sugar and Cinnamon
In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir until well blended. This mixture will impart that classic cinnamon-sugar flavor we all know and love.
Step 3: Coat the Dough Pieces
Take the biscuit dough pieces and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Ensure that each piece is well coated to maximize flavor. You can do this in small batches to avoid overcrowding in the bowl.
Step 4: Prepare the Slow Cooker
While you’re tossing the dough, you should also prepare your crock pot. Spray the inside of the crock pot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the dough from sticking. This step is crucial for easy removal later on.
Step 5: Layer the Dough in the Crock Pot
Once the dough pieces are coated, layer them in the bottom of the crock pot. If you’re adding optional ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips, sprinkle some over the dough layers. Make sure not to pack the dough too tightly; you want it to have room to rise and cook.
Step 6: Mix Butter and Brown Sugar
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar until you have a uniform mixture. This will create a rich, gooey sauce that seeps into the dough while it cooks. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered dough in the crock pot.
Step 7: Cook the Monkey Bread
Set your crock pot to low and cook for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. The monkey bread is done when the top is golden brown, and the center is cooked through. Avoid removing the lid frequently, as this can extend the cooking time.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, turn off the crock pot and let the monkey bread cool for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period will help the bread firm up slightly and make it easier to remove. Carefully use a large spoon to scoop out chunks of the monkey bread. Serve warm, and enjoy the delightful, gooey goodness!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Crock Pot Monkey Bread
To ensure your monkey bread turns out perfectly, consider these tips:
1. Experiment with Flavors
Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations! You can add ingredients like:
- Chopped apples or pears for a fruity twist.
- Maple-flavored syrup for a nutty aroma.
2. Don’t Skip the Resting Time
While it may be tempting to dig in right away, allowing the monkey bread to rest for a few minutes will enhance the flavor and texture. The buttery sauce seeps into the dough more effectively during this time.
3. Garnishing Options
To give your monkey bread an extra special touch, you can drizzle it with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk, or serve it with a side of cream cheese frosting for dipping.
Monkey Bread Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, you can explore various monkey bread variations. Here are some exciting ideas:
1. Savory Monkey Bread
Swap out the cinnamon and sugar for garlic powder, parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs to create a savory pull-apart bread that pairs perfectly with pasta meals.
2. Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread
Add chocolate chips between the layers of dough for a decadent dessert. This version is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!
3. Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread
Perfect for autumn, incorporate pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spices into your dough for a seasonal treat.
Conclusion
Making monkey bread in a crock pot is not only incredibly easy but also creates one of the most delightful and shareable treats you can whip up. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just indulging in a bit of sweetness, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends.
With its tender, gooey texture and irresistible flavors, crock pot monkey bread is a spectacular treat that celebrates the joys of cooking and sharing delicious food. Don’t forget to get creative with variations and flavors to tailor this delightful dish to your preferences. Happy cooking, and enjoy every irresistibly sweet bite!
What is monkey bread?
Monkey bread is a sweet, sticky pastry made by baking small pieces of dough that are coated in butter and sugar. The dough pieces are typically made from biscuit or bread dough, which are rolled into balls and mixed with cinnamon and sugar before being layered in a bundt pan or crock pot. The result is a pull-apart bread that’s fun to eat and perfect for gatherings or brunch.
Traditionally, monkey bread is baked in the oven, but using a crock pot allows for a more hands-off cooking method. The slow cooking process lets the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a moist and gooey treat that is irresistible. It’s often served warm, with options for drizzling icing or caramel sauce on top for added sweetness.
Can I use store-bought dough for monkey bread?
Absolutely! Using store-bought dough is a fantastic shortcut for making monkey bread, especially if you’re short on time. Pre-packaged biscuit dough can be a time-saver and still deliver delicious results. Simply open the package, cut the dough into small pieces, and coat them with your desired sugar and spice mixture.
Another option is to use frozen dough balls, which can be thawed and ready for use. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade dough from scratch is also an excellent option. It allows for customization of flavors and ingredients, creating a unique twist on the classic recipe.
How long does it take to cook monkey bread in a crock pot?
Cooking monkey bread in a crock pot usually takes about 2 to 3 hours on high heat, or 4 to 5 hours on low heat. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your specific crock pot model and the amount of dough used. It’s essential to keep an eye on it to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t become overdone.
To check for doneness, you can use a toothpick or a skewer. Insert it in the center of the monkey bread; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready to be enjoyed. Allowing the bread to cool for a few minutes before serving can help the flavors settle and make it easier to pull apart.
Can I make monkey bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make monkey bread ahead of time, which is particularly convenient for occasions when you want to minimize prep work. You can prepare the dough and assemble it in the crock pot the night before and then refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Just ensure that you allow the dough to come to room temperature before starting the cooking process.
Alternatively, you can also cook monkey bread ahead of time and then reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving. However, reheating it in the crock pot is a simple option—just add a little butter or sauce to keep it moist and warm. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavor without the stress of last-minute cooking.
What variations can I try with monkey bread?
There are countless variations you can experiment with when making monkey bread. For instance, you can incorporate different flavorings by using chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit into the dough or in the sugar coating. Changing up the spices, such as adding nutmeg or swapping cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice, can create a unique twist as well.
You can also try savory variations by using cheese, garlic, or herbs in your monkey bread. This creates a delicious pull-apart bread that can serve as a side dish or appetizer. The versatility of monkey bread means you can tailor it to suit any occasion, making it a fun dish to get creative with.
How do I store leftover monkey bread?
Leftover monkey bread can be stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It’s best to let it cool completely before transferring it to the container to avoid moisture buildup, which can make it soggy. Stored this way, it can last for about 2 to 3 days at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in the microwave for a quick option. For best results, wrap individual pieces in a damp paper towel and heat them for about 15-30 seconds. Alternatively, you can warm it up in the oven for about 10 minutes at a low temperature to regain that sticky, gooey texture that makes monkey bread so delightful.