Name: Monkey Bread (From Scratch!)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup milk (warm (about 110 degrees F)); 1/2 cup water (warm (about 110 degrees F)); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for work surface); 2 teaspoons salt; 1 cup light brown sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk

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There’s something irresistibly charming about Monkey Bread. This gooey, pull-apart delight, often enjoyed at breakfast or as a sweet treat, invites friends and family to gather around and dig in together. The best part? You can make it from scratch with just a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s dive into this fun and delightful recipe for Monkey Bread that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Monkey Bread recipe is special because it combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a soft, fluffy dough that’s incredibly easy to make. Unlike store-bought versions, making it from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and create a fresh, warm treat that fills your kitchen with the most heavenly aroma. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the joy of pulling apart pieces of warm bread, each covered in a sweet cinnamon glaze.

Ingredient Breakdown

2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness to the dough.
1 cup (240ml) milk, warm (about 110 degrees F): Activates the yeast and enriches the dough.
1/2 cup (80ml) water, warm (about 110 degrees F): Helps to create the right dough consistency.
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with yeast activation.
2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted: Used for coating the dough balls.
2 teaspoons instant yeast: The leavening agent that makes the bread rise.
3 cups (390g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for work surface: The base for the dough.
2 teaspoons salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
1 cup (198g) light brown sugar: Adds depth and moisture to the sweetness.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Infuses the bread with warm, comforting spice.
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted: For coating the dough pieces before baking.
1 cup (113g) powdered sugar: Used for the sweet glaze.
2 tablespoons (30ml) milk: To thin the glaze to the perfect consistency.

What’s in the Gear List

Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking.
Whisk: For mixing wet ingredients and the glaze.
9×5-inch Loaf Pan: Ideal shape for baking the Monkey Bread.
Plastic Wrap or Towel: To cover the dough while it rises.
Cooling Rack: For cooling the Monkey Bread after baking.

Build Monkey Bread (From Scratch!) Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Mix in Ingredients

Add the softened butter, salt, and 2 cups of the all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined, then gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a dough begins to form.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the cinnamon.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into small pieces, about the size of a walnut. Roll each piece into a ball.

Step 7: Coat the Dough Balls

Dip each ball in the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Arrange the coated dough balls in the greased loaf pan, stacking them as you go.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough balls rise for another 30 minutes, or until they puff up.

Step 9: Bake the Monkey Bread

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bake the Monkey Bread for 30-35 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

While the bread is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Once the Monkey Bread is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before drizzling with the glaze. Serve warm and enjoy!

International Equivalents

1 cup = 240 ml
1 tablespoon = 15 ml
1 teaspoon = 5 ml
1 cup all-purpose flour = 130g
1 cup light brown sugar = 220g
1 cup powdered sugar = 120g

Flavor Logic

The delightful combination of warm cinnamon and sweet brown sugar is what makes Monkey Bread so comforting and addictive. The dough itself is soft and buttery, serving as the perfect canvas for the flavors of cinnamon and sugar. Each bite is like a warm hug, and the glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness to tie it all together.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after the first rise. Simply punch it down, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, bring it back to room temperature and follow the remaining steps.

To store leftover Monkey Bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick treat!

Your Top Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. Consider using a mix of both for the best results.

How do I know when the Monkey Bread is done baking?

The Monkey Bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check the internal temperature; it should be around 190 degrees F (88 degrees C).

Can I make this recipe without milk?

Yes! You can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk to suit your preference.

What can I add to the Monkey Bread for extra flavor?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the dough for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sugar if your additions are sweet!

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Save & Share

If you enjoyed this Monkey Bread (From Scratch!) recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! This delightful treat is perfect for gatherings, brunches, or simply enjoying on a cozy weekend morning. Snap a photo of your creation and share it on social media with your favorite hashtags!

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh baked Monkey Bread wafting through your home. As you pull apart those soft, buttery pieces, you’ll be reminded of why this classic treat is a favorite for so many. From the first bite to the last, this Monkey Bread (From Scratch!) recipe will surely become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire. Happy baking!