Classic Monkey Bread Recipe: Soft, Sweet, and Buttery Pull-Apart Treat

Monkey Bread is a soft, pull-apart pastry coated in a sweet, buttery cinnamon glaze. This irresistible treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a crowd-pleasing dessert. Made with fluffy dough balls baked together and drenched in a rich, caramelized sauce, Monkey Bread is both fun to make and eat!

What Is Monkey Bread?

Monkey Bread is a pull-apart bread made from small dough balls coated in a cinnamon-sugar butter mixture and baked together in a bundt pan. Originating from the United States, this treat is often enjoyed as a breakfast pastry or dessert. The name comes from the way it’s eaten—by pulling apart pieces just like monkeys picking food!

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy texture: Each bite-sized piece is light and airy with a caramelized crust.
• Easy to share: Perfect for gatherings, brunch, or a sweet family treat.
• Irresistible cinnamon-butter flavor: A mix of sweet and buttery goodness with warm cinnamon spice.
• Beginner-friendly: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a great baking project.

Pro Tips for the Best Monkey Bread

1. Use warm milk (not hot): This helps activate the yeast without killing it.
2. Knead well: A smooth dough ensures a fluffy texture.
3. Let it rise fully: Don’t rush the rising time; a well-proofed dough leads to the best results.
4. Add extra cinnamon: If you love a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the amount in the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Monkey Bread Dense?

If your Monkey Bread is too dense, the dough may not have risen enough. Make sure to let it proof properly before baking.

Can I Make Monkey Bread Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

What’s The Best Way to Serve Monkey Bread?

Serve warm, straight from the pan, or turn it out onto a plate for easy pulling.

Can I Add Nuts or Raisins?

Absolutely! Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins between the dough balls for added texture and flavor.

How do I Prevent my Monkey Bread From Sticking?

Grease the bundt pan well with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

How to Freeze Monkey Bread

Monkey Bread can be frozen before or after baking:

• Unbaked dough balls: Arrange them in the pan, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Baked Monkey Bread: Allow to cool completely, wrap in plastic, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

How to Store Monkey Bread

• Room temperature: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days. Warm slightly before serving for the best texture.

How To Make Monkey Bread

In a bowl, whisk together the egg and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Add honey, melted butter, and milk, then mix to combine. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the flour and yeast together. Pour the butter mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 3 hours, or until doubled in size.

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside for coating the dough balls.

Punch down the dough to remove excess air.

Divide it into small pieces (about 20 grams each) and roll into balls.

Dip each dough ball into the cinnamon sauce, ensuring full coating.

Arrange the coated dough balls in a greased bundt pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 360°F (180°C). Bake for 35 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Invert onto a plate and serve warm.