The Best Homemade Monkey Bread Recipe

Recipe

There’s something magical about pulling apart warm, gooey monkey bread—sticky caramel clinging to every bite, soft dough melting in your mouth, and that irresistible cinnamon-sugar aroma filling your kitchen.

This homemade version? Absolute perfection. No fancy skills required, just a foolproof recipe that delivers buttery, pull-apart goodness every single time.

What makes it special? A secret blend of brown sugar and vanilla that takes the glaze from good to *can’t-stop-eating-it* levels. Trust me, once you try this, store-bought versions will never compare.

It’s the kind of treat that disappears before it even cools, whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a holiday brunch centerpiece.

Ready to make your house smell like a bakery? Let’s bake.

Ingredients

For the best homemade monkey bread, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and a few key ingredients that make this pull-apart treat irresistible. The dough is soft and pillowy, while the gooey caramel sauce is rich and decadent. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some insider tips to make it shine:

For the Dough:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting): Bread flour works too for a chewier texture.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right sweetness to the dough.
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast: Proof it in warm water to confirm it’s active and ready to go.
• ¾ cup warm whole milk (110°F): Whole milk makes the dough extra tender; don’t skip it!
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the dough and adds softness.

For the Coating:

• 1 cup granulated sugar: Coats the dough balls for that signature sweetness.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon: A must-have for that warm, comforting flavor.

For the Caramel Sauce:

• ½ cup unsalted butter: Real butter is non-negotiable for a rich, velvety sauce.
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Dark brown sugar works too for a deeper flavor.
• ¼ cup heavy cream: Keeps the sauce smooth and luscious—don’t substitute this.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and complexity to the caramel.

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts: Adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
• Pinch of sea salt: Sprinkle on top of the caramel for a sweet-and-salty finish.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, canned biscuit dough can be used as a quick swap, but homemade dough is worth the effort for that soft, bakery-quality texture.

Also, make sure your caramel sauce is warm when pouring it over the dough balls to guarantee it seeps into every crevice.

How to Make the Best Gooey Cinnamon Monkey Bread

Prep Reminders:

Before diving in, make sure your biscuit dough is at room temperature. This makes it easier to handle and shape. Also, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan generously with butter or non-stick spray—this guarantees your monkey bread releases beautifully.

Creating the Coating:

In a medium bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon until well combined. This will be your coating for the dough pieces, giving that iconic sweet and spiced flavor. Pro tip: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth if you’re feeling adventurous.

Prepping the Dough:

Separate the biscuit dough into individual pieces and cut each into quarters. This creates bite-sized pieces that’ll bake evenly and soak up all the flavor. Watch out: If the dough is too cold, it might tear—so let it sit for 5-10 minutes if needed.

Coating the Dough Pieces:

Toss the dough pieces in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, making certain each piece is fully coated. This step is key to achieving that irresistible crust. Pro tip: Use a large zip-top bag for tossing—it’s less messy and guarantees even coverage.

Layering the Dough:

Arrange the coated dough pieces in the prepared Bundt pan, scattering them evenly. Don’t pack them too tightly—this allows the heat to circulate and guarantees the bread bakes evenly.

Making the Gooey Sauce:

In a small saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This creates that signature gooey glaze. Why it works: The butter and sugar caramelize slightly, adding depth to the flavor.

Pouring the Sauce:

Carefully pour the warm sauce over the dough pieces in the pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed. This step transforms the bread into a sticky, decadent treat. Pro tip: Use a spoon to gently nudge the sauce into any gaps for maximum coverage.

Baking the Monkey Bread:

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. Watch out: Overbaking can dry out the bread, so keep an eye on it after the 25-minute mark.

Cooling and Serving:

Let the monkey bread cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate. This waiting period allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to handle. Serve warm and pull apart the pieces for the ultimate experience. Pro tip: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for extra indulgence.

Flexibility:

If you don’t have a Bundt pan, a 9×13-inch baking dish works too—just adjust the bake time by 5-10 minutes. Monkey bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if needed.

Nutrition

Monkey bread is a delicious treat, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Below is a breakdown of the nutrients per serving.

Chef Tips

When making monkey bread, I’ve found that using room-temperature dough guarantees it rises evenly and bakes to a perfect texture.

Always dust your hands with flour when shaping the dough balls to prevent sticking.

Coat them generously in cinnamon sugar for a balanced flavor.

Preheat your oven thoroughly to secure even baking.

Finally, let it cool briefly before pulling apart to keep the texture intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Refrigerated Biscuit Dough Instead of Homemade?

Yes, I can use refrigerated biscuit dough instead of homemade. It’s quick and convenient, and I’ve found it works just as well. I’ll just cut the biscuits into smaller pieces and follow the recipe’s instructions.

How Long Does Monkey Bread Stay Fresh?

Monkey bread stays fresh for about two days at room temperature if wrapped tightly. I’d recommend keeping it in the fridge for up to five days, though reheating can help restore its gooey texture.

Can I Freeze Monkey Bread for Later?

Yes, I can freeze monkey bread for later. I’ll wrap it tightly in plastic or foil, then store it in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat before serving.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Monkey Bread?

I’d reheat monkey bread in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to keep it moist. Microwaving works if I’m in a hurry, but it might not stay as gooey.

Can I Make Monkey Bread Gluten-Free?

Yes, I can make monkey bread gluten-free by using a gluten-free biscuit dough or flour blend. I’ll just swap out regular ingredients for gluten-free alternatives and guarantee everything else—like butter and sugars—stays the same.