Deliciously Easy: How to Make Monkey Bread Out of Cinnamon Rolls

Monkey bread is a beloved treat combining soft, gooey dough with the warmth of cinnamon and sugar. Often enjoyed as a breakfast or dessert item, it is a crowd-pleaser that can be made using ingredients commonly found in your kitchen. This article will delve into the creamy, sugary world of monkey bread using the ultimate shortcut: cinnamon rolls. In just a few steps, you can create a spectacular dish that leaves everyone asking for seconds!

What is Monkey Bread?

Monkey bread, sometimes referred to as “pull-apart bread,” is a shared dessert that consists of bite-sized pieces of dough rolled in cinnamon sugar and baked in a bundt pan. Traditionally, this sweet pastry requires a homemade dough, but in this recipe, we will optimize our cooking time by using pre-made cinnamon rolls.

The beauty of monkey bread lies in its communal aspect; guests can pull off pieces of the soft bread, making it ideal for gatherings or family breakfasts. The gooey centers and crispy exteriors create a delightful texture that transforms a simple treat into a memorable experience.

Why Use Cinnamon Rolls?

Using cinnamon rolls as a base for monkey bread offers numerous benefits:

• Convenience: Pre-made cinnamon rolls save time and effort, allowing you to focus on the fun part—making the dish.
• Flavor: The rich cinnamon flavor present in ready-made rolls enhances the sweet experience.

These factors not only make the preparation easier but also ensure a delicious result that will delight your family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating monkey bread out of cinnamon rolls does require some additional ingredients, but most are staples you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

Note: If you want to add a bit more flavor and texture, feel free to incorporate raisins or chocolate chips into the mixture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to start making this delectable monkey bread! Follow these easy-to-understand instructions for a successful outcome.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial, as it ensures that your monkey bread bakes evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

Open both cans of cinnamon roll dough. Remove the rolls and cut each roll into quarters. You should have approximately 32 pieces from two cans. Place these pieces in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Create the Sugar Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This sweet mixture will coat the dough pieces to provide that quintessential monkey bread flavor.

Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Sugar to the Dough

Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the pieces of cinnamon rolls in the bowl. Gently toss the pieces until they are evenly coated. The result should be fragrant, sugar-dusted dough that is ready to shine.

Step 5: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Grease your bundt pan using cooking spray or melted butter to ensure your monkey bread releases easily once baked. If you’re adding nuts, sprinkle half of them at the bottom of the pan for added texture.

Step 6: Layer the Cinnamon Roll Pieces

Carefully layer the cinnamon roll pieces in the prepared bundt pan. If you’re using nuts, alternate layers with the remaining half of the chopped nuts. This approach adds a delightful crunch to your finished product.

Step 7: Make the Buttery Topping

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 8: Pour Over the Dough

Gently pour the buttery mixture over the layered cinnamon roll pieces in the bundt pan, ensuring that all of the dough gets some love.

Baking the Monkey Bread

Once your bundt pan is filled with all those gooey delights, it’s time to bake!

Step 9: Bake in the Oven

Place your bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until the monkey bread is golden brown and thoroughly cooked.

To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the bread.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

After baking, allow the monkey bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently run a butter knife around the edges for easy release. Carefully invert the bundt pan onto a serving plate, and give it a little shake if necessary to release the deliciously gooey bread.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your monkey bread is beautifully plated, it’s time for the fun part—serving it! Here are a few ideas:

• Glaze: Drizzle some icing from the cinnamon roll cans over the top for added sweetness.
• Whipped cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for added indulgence.

Feel free to get creative with your toppings and sides; the possibilities are endless!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can reheat the monkey bread in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.

Variations to Try

Monkey bread is a versatile dish that can play host to various flavors. Consider experimenting with some of the following options:

Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread

Substitute half of the cinnamon rolls with chocolate chip rolls, or add a handful of chocolate chips when you layer your dough in the bundt pan for a rich, decadent treat.

Maple Monkey Bread

Replace the granulated sugar with maple sugar for a uniquely flavored twist, and drizzle with maple syrup for serving.

Conclusion

Making monkey bread out of cinnamon rolls is an easy and fun way to whip up a sweet treat that everyone will love. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delightful dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, brunch, or a casual gathering, this monkey bread is sure to impress.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to enjoy a delicious journey that turns ordinary cinnamon rolls into extraordinary monkey bread! Happy baking!

What is monkey bread?

Monkey bread is a sweet, sticky pastry made from small pieces of dough that are rolled in cinnamon sugar and baked together in a bundt pan. The name “monkey bread” comes from the idea that you can pull apart the pieces of dough with your fingers, much like a monkey would. Traditionally, it’s served warm and can be enjoyed as a breakfast or dessert treat.

The dough used for monkey bread can vary, but using pre-made cinnamon rolls simplifies the process significantly. Instead of making dough from scratch, you can cut up the cinnamon rolls, coat them in cinnamon sugar, and bake them to achieve that signature gooey texture. This is why monkey bread made from cinnamon rolls is a favorite for many home bakers.

Can I use store-bought cinnamon rolls for this recipe?

Yes, using store-bought cinnamon rolls is a convenient and time-saving option for making monkey bread. It allows you to focus on the fun part of the recipe, which is assembling the bread. You can find various brands of refrigerated cinnamon rolls, and they will all work well in this recipe. Just make sure you choose a flavor that you enjoy, as this will strongly contribute to the overall taste of the monkey bread.

When selecting store-bought cinnamon rolls, it’s best to look for those that come with a separate icing packet. This icing can be drizzled on top after baking, adding an extra layer of sweetness and flavor. By starting with pre-made dough, even novice bakers can enjoy a deliciously easy monkey bread without the stress of making dough from scratch.

How do I prepare the cinnamon rolls for monkey bread?

To prepare the cinnamon rolls for monkey bread, begin by preheating your oven according to the package instructions. Next, take the cinnamon rolls out of their packaging and cut each roll into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This usually means cutting each roll into about four to six pieces, depending on how large you want each piece of monkey bread to be.

Once cut, toss the pieces in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. This step ensures that each bite will be flavorful and coated in the sweet cinnamon goodness. After coating the pieces, layer them in a greased bundt pan, and pour a mixture of melted butter and additional sugar over the top. This mixture will create a caramel-like glaze as the monkey bread bakes, enhancing the delightful flavors.

How long should I bake monkey bread made from cinnamon rolls?

Typically, monkey bread made from cinnamon rolls will need to bake for about 25 to 35 minutes at the temperature specified on the cinnamon roll package. However, it’s important to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking. You want it to be a nice golden brown on top while ensuring it’s fully cooked in the center.

To check for doneness, you can insert a toothpick into the center of the bundt pan. If it comes out clean, your monkey bread is ready. If there’s still batter on the toothpick, give it a few more minutes and check again. After baking, allow it to cool for a few minutes, then carefully invert it onto a plate to reveal the wonderfully caramelized top.

Can I make monkey bread ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can prepare monkey bread ahead of time. One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can assemble the monkey bread the night before, place it in the refrigerator, and bake it in the morning for a fresh and warm breakfast. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before baking, as this will help it bake evenly.

If you want to make the monkey bread even further in advance, consider freezing the assembled bread before the baking stage. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight, and bake it as instructed. This way, you can have homemade monkey bread ready with minimal effort!

What toppings can I add to monkey bread?

There are many delicious toppings and additions you can include in your monkey bread to customize it to your liking. Some popular options include chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits mixed in with the cinnamon sugar coating. These additions not only enhance the flavor but can also provide added texture. Make sure any extra ingredients are evenly distributed among the pieces to ensure every bite is delightful.

For serving, you can drizzle the monkey bread with additional icing or a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk. Some people enjoy adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar on top after it cools for an added touch. Feel free to get creative and try different combinations to find your perfect version of monkey bread!