Monkey bread, a delightful pull-apart pastry, has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many. It’s ooey-gooey, cinnamon-sweetened goodness makes it an irresistible option for brunch, special occasions, or even a cozy weekend treat. The best part? You can whip up this classic dessert with minimal effort using Pillsbury cinnamon rolls. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make monkey bread that will surprise and delight your family and friends.
What is Monkey Bread?
Monkey bread, also known as bubble bread, is a breakfast or dessert dish consisting of small pieces of dough rolled in butter and coated with cinnamon sugar. These morsels are then baked together in a bundt pan, resulting in a luscious centerpiece that’s perfect for sharing. The name “monkey bread” is believed to come from the way diners pick at the bread, much like monkeys do when they snack.
Ingredients You Will Need
To create your delicious monkey bread with Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cans of Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls with icing (each can containing 8 rolls)
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- Optional: 1/2 cup of raisins for extra sweetness
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to baking an indulgent treat that has all the charm and flavor of traditional monkey bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Monkey Bread
Creating monkey bread from Pillsbury cinnamon rolls is so simple, you’ll find yourself making it time and time again. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial as it ensures that your monkey bread bakes evenly and puff up nicely.
Step 2: Prepare Your Bundt Pan
Next, take a 10-12 cup bundt pan and spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray. This is a necessity to ensure that all the delicious goodness doesn’t stick to the pan after baking.
Step 3: Cut the Cinnamon Rolls
Open the cans of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls. Each roll needs to be cut into quarters. Carefully separate each roll and use kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to cut them into smaller pieces. For a quicker method, you can also pinch the dough to divide it.
Tip:
Make sure to keep the icing that comes with the rolls separate for later use.
Step 4: Mix Sugar and Cinnamon
In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This mixture will give your monkey bread its classic cinnamon-sugar coating. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
Step 5: Coat the Dough Pieces
Add the quartered pieces of cinnamon rolls to the bowl containing the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Toss them gently until all dough pieces are coated. If you’re using nuts or raisins, now is the time to add them into the mix.
Step 6: Layer the Dough in the Bundt Pan
Take the coated cinnamon roll pieces and start layering them into the prepared bundt pan. Drizzle melted butter over each layer. This helps bind the pieces together and creates that charming sticky texture associated with monkey bread.
Step 7: Add the Remaining Sugar Mixture
Once you’ve filled the bundt pan with all the dough, you might have some left-over sugar and cinnamon mixture. Sprinkle this generously on top before the final drizzle of melted butter.
Step 8: Bake Your Monkey Bread
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dough has risen. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Flip
Once the monkey bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This is important; letting it cool slightly helps the edges set, ensuring it flips out of the pan easily. After the cooling period, carefully flip the pan onto a serving platter, allowing the sweet rolls to tumble out.
Step 10: Drizzle with Icing
Finally, take the icing that was set aside from the cinnamon roll package. Warm it slightly if needed, and drizzle it over the warm monkey bread. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the sweet flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Monkey bread is best served warm. You can enjoy it straight from the bundt or serve it with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or alongside a cup of coffee or tea. This delectable dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert.
Storing Your Monkey Bread
If you happen to have leftovers (although it’s unlikely), you can store the monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual pieces. To reheat, simply microwave them for a few seconds or place them back in the oven at a low temperature until warm.
Tips for the Best Monkey Bread
Here are a few tips to elevate your monkey bread making experience:
- Experiment with flavors: Try adding chocolate chips, or even a layer of cream cheese for a decadent twist.
- Custom toppings: You can incorporate other spices such as nutmeg or allspice to deepen the flavor profile.
Conclusion
Making monkey bread with Pillsbury cinnamon rolls is not only easy and quick, but it also allows for a myriad of flavor combinations. Whether you’re treating your family on a Sunday morning or need a fun dessert for a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls with a drizzle of sweet icing makes for an irresistible treat that delights both young and old alike.
So why wait? Grab those cans of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, and let the delicious adventure of monkey bread making begin! Your taste buds will thank you.
What is monkey bread?
Monkey bread is a sweet, sticky, pull-apart bread that is typically made from pieces of dough rolled in cinnamon sugar. It is often baked in a bundt pan, resulting in a visually appealing dessert that’s perfect for sharing. Its fun, informal presentation allows people to tear off pieces and enjoy the deliciousness together.
The name “monkey bread” is thought to come from the way people pick at the bread, reminiscent of how monkeys eat. This delightful treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, and it pairs well with coffee or milk. Given its easy preparation, it’s a popular choice for gatherings and celebrations.
Can I use any type of cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of refrigerated cinnamon rolls for making monkey bread, but using Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls simplifies the process. Their dough is ready to use, and the flavor profile pairs well with the typical accompaniments of monkey bread, such as butter and cinnamon sugar. However, you can experiment with different brands or variations as long as they are similar in consistency and flavor.
If you choose to use a different type of cinnamon roll, make sure to follow the baking instructions on the package to ensure proper cooking time and temperature. Some alternatives might include mini cinnamon rolls or gluten-free options, which can still yield a delicious monkey bread with slight variations in texture and taste.
How long does it take to make monkey bread with Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls?
Making monkey bread with Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls is a quick and easy process that typically takes about 10-15 minutes of preparation time, followed by 30 to 40 minutes of baking. You will spend most of the time cutting the rolls, mixing the cinnamon-sugar coating, and assembling them in the pan. This makes it an excellent choice for a last-minute dessert or brunch dish.
Once baked, it’s important to let the monkey bread cool for a few minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. This will prevent it from falling apart and ensure that the sticky caramel topping doesn’t run off. Altogether, you can expect the total time from start to finish to be approximately 50-60 minutes.
Can I make monkey bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare monkey bread ahead of time, making it a convenient option for gatherings. You can assemble the dough pieces and coating in the bundt pan and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store the unbaked monkey bread in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before baking.
Another option is to bake the monkey bread and store it after it has cooled. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave just before serving. It’s best consumed fresh, but stored monkey bread will still taste delicious with the right reheating methods.
What can I serve with monkey bread?
Monkey bread is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with various accompaniments. A drizzle of icing made from powdered sugar and milk adds a sweet touch that complements the cinnamon flavors. You could also offer a side of vanilla or caramel sauce for dipping, which elevates the dessert even further.
For a festive twist, consider pairing your monkey bread with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas can also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread. These combinations can make your dessert feel more indulgent while adding a colorful presentation to your serving table.
How should I store leftover monkey bread?
Leftover monkey bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2-3 days. It’s best to keep it covered to maintain moisture, ensuring the bread stays soft and fresh. If you prefer to keep it for a longer time, you can refrigerate it, although this may slightly change the texture.
For extended storage, monkey bread can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature, and reheat in the oven to restore its original, gooey goodness.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to my monkey bread?
Absolutely! One of the great things about monkey bread is its versatility. You can customize it by adding ingredients such as chocolate chips, nuts (like pecans or walnuts), or even fruit like apples or raisins mixed with the dough pieces. These additions can create exciting new flavors and textures that enhance the classic monkey bread experience.
You can also consider using different spices or flavorings in the cinnamon-sugar coating. For example, adding nutmeg, ginger, or pumpkin spice can give it a seasonal twist. If you wish to make it more decadent, you can incorporate a layer of cream cheese in between the dough pieces. Experimenting with various ingredients allows you to create a unique version of monkey bread that suits your taste preferences.