If you’re searching for a fun and delicious dessert that brings comfort and delight to your table, look no further than Monkey Bread. This sweet, gooey treat is a favorite in many homes, and when made with Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, it transforms into an incredibly simple recipe bursting with flavor. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to make Monkey Bread with Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, share some tips for the perfect bake, and explore the history of this beloved dessert.
What is Monkey Bread?
Monkey Bread, also known as Pull-Apart Bread or Bubble Bread, is a dish made of soft, sweet dough pieces that are coated in cinnamon and sugar, then baked together in a bundt pan. The name “Monkey Bread” is thought to come from the way you eat it—tearing off pieces of dough with your fingers, much like how monkeys eat. This delightful bread can be served as a breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.
In this guide, we’ll be using Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, which not only bring ease to this recipe but also a delightful flavor that complements the overall dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Monkey Bread is remarkably simple, especially when using Pillsbury cinnamon rolls. Here’s a quick rundown of what you will need:
- 2 cans of Pillsbury Grands!® Cinnamon Roll dough
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon
- Optional: Chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts)
- Optional: Raisins or chocolate chips for added sweetness
Tip: Feel free to customize your Monkey Bread by adding in your favorite ingredients such as chocolate chips or dried fruits.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Monkey Bread
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making delicious Monkey Bread using Pillsbury cinnamon rolls.
Step 1: Preparing the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure an even bake for your Monkey Bread.
- Open the cans: Carefully pop open the two cans of Pillsbury Grands!® Cinnamon Rolls. The best way to do this is to press the seam of the can against the counter until it pops open.
- Cut the rolls: Using a sharp knife, cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. This will make it easy to form bite-sized pieces that can be easily pulled apart after baking.
Step 2: Mixing the Cinnamon and Sugar
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This mixture will coat the cinnamon roll pieces, giving them that iconic flavor.
Step 3: Coating the Cinnamon Roll Pieces
- Melt the butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Coat the pieces: Toss the quartered cinnamon roll pieces into the butter, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. You can also mix in any optional ingredients like chopped nuts at this stage.
- Add the sugar mixture: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter-coated cinnamon roll pieces and toss until they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Assembling the Monkey Bread
- Grease the bundt pan: Generously grease a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter to ensure that your Monkey Bread releases easily after baking.
- Add the dough pieces: Carefully place the sugar-coated cinnamon roll pieces into the bundt pan. If you’re using optional ingredients like raisins or chocolate chips, sprinkle them as you layer the dough pieces.
- Finish layering: Make sure to distribute the pieces evenly in the pan.
Step 5: Baking the Monkey Bread
- Bake: Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is cooked through. You can check doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool slightly: Once baked, remove the Monkey Bread from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate.
Syrup for Drizzling
While the Monkey Bread is cooling, you can prepare a simple syrup to drizzle over it:
- Make a glaze: Use the icing that comes with the Pillsbury cinnamon rolls for an easy and delicious glaze. Simply warm it slightly in the microwave to make it easier to drizzle.
- Drizzle: Once the Monkey Bread is inverted onto a plate, drizzle the warm icing over the top for an extra touch of sweetness and decoration.
Serving Suggestions for Monkey Bread
Monkey Bread can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions:
Breakfast Treat
Serve your Monkey Bread with a side of fruit, coffee, or a hot chocolate for a flavorful breakfast that everyone will enjoy.
Dessert Delight
Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The melting ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm, gooey bread.
Creative Variations on Classic Monkey Bread
Wondering how to put a twist on your Monkey Bread? Here are a few creative variations to consider:
Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread
Add semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips to the dough pieces before baking. This twist will satisfy your sweet tooth and introduce a wonderful chocolate flavor throughout the bread.
Fresh Fruit Monkey Bread
Mix in some fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, blueberries, or apples into the cinnamon roll dough for a burst of natural sweetness and a colorful presentation.
Nutty Monkey Bread
Incorporate a mix of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the coat of dough for added crunch and flavor. Nuts add a delightful texture, making every bite unique.
The History and Tradition of Monkey Bread
Monkey Bread has a fascinating history that dates back to the 1950s. It is thought to have originated in the United States, with variations of the recipe being passed down through generations. Traditional recipes often included homemade dough, but the convenience of using Pillsbury products has made it widely popular today.
Many families have their unique takes on Monkey Bread, and it has become a staple at gatherings such as potlucks, holidays, and brunch events. The joy of sharing this treat with loved ones reinforces the idea of togetherness and the fun associated with breaking apart the bread.
Final Thoughts
Making delicious Monkey Bread with Pillsbury cinnamon rolls is not just a delightful baking experience; it’s also a wonderful way to create lasting memories with family and friends. From its gooey center to its sweet, crispy exterior, this treat is a perfect indulgence for any occasion.
With this simple recipe at your fingertips, you can explore countless variations and ways to enjoy Monkey Bread—whether as a breakfast item, festive dessert, or a comforting treat on a cozy night in. So gather your ingredients and ignite your creativity as you delight in the wondrous world of Monkey Bread!
What is monkey bread?
Monkey bread is a sweet, sticky dessert that consists of small pieces of dough that are rolled in cinnamon sugar and baked together in a bundt pan. The result is a pull-apart bread characterized by its gooey texture and delightful flavor. Traditionally, it’s served warm, allowing for an interactive eating experience where guests can pull apart pieces of the bread.
The name “monkey bread” is often thought to come from how it’s eaten—much like a monkey picking apart the individual pieces. This treat is particularly popular for breakfast or brunch, but it can also be enjoyed as a dessert. Using Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls simplifies the process, making it easy for anyone to create this classic dish without extensive baking skills.
Can I make monkey bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare monkey bread ahead of time, which is great for brunch gatherings or family get-togethers. You can assemble the monkey bread and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature while preheating your oven. This will help ensure even baking. If you prefer, you can also bake it, let it cool, and then reheat it briefly in the oven before serving to restore its deliciously gooey texture.
Can I use different flavors of Pillsbury rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional monkey bread is made with cinnamon rolls, you can experiment with different flavors of Pillsbury rolls to create unique variations. For instance, you could use their chocolate rolls for a richer dessert or their orange rolls for a citrusy twist.
When substituting flavors, consider adjusting the accompanying ingredients accordingly. For example, if using chocolate rolls, you might want to include chocolate chips or a chocolate drizzle instead of the typical cinnamon sugar topping. The versatility of monkey bread allows you to enjoy various taste combinations while keeping the ease of preparation.
How long does monkey bread take to bake?
Typically, monkey bread takes about 30 to 45 minutes to bake, depending on your oven and the specific recipe you are following. The key is to bake it until it’s golden brown on top and baked through in the center. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the middle; it should come out clean if it’s fully cooked.
It’s important to note that if you decide to cover the monkey bread with foil to prevent over-browning, you may need to extend the baking time slightly. Always keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to achieve that perfect pulled-apart look without burning the edges.
What can I serve with monkey bread?
Monkey bread is delicious on its own, but there are several accompaniments that can elevate the experience. Many people enjoy serving it with a side of cream cheese frosting or a vanilla glaze for dipping. This adds a deliciously sweet touch that complements the cinnamon flavors beautifully.
Additionally, you can offer fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, to provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the monkey bread. A scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can also make it an indulgent dessert, adding layers of flavor and texture to this fun treat.
Can I freeze monkey bread?
Yes, you can freeze monkey bread, which is a great way to preserve leftovers for later enjoyment. To freeze, allow the monkey bread to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can also store it in an airtight freezer bag.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen monkey bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, which will refresh its warm, gooey texture. Just be careful not to overheat it, as that can dry out the bread.