Monkey Bread Recipe Easy: A Gooey Treat Anyone Can Make

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious pull-apart treat, this monkey bread recipe easy guide is for you! Packed with warm cinnamon, buttery glaze, and a fluffy biscuit texture, this dessert is ideal for any occasion—and it’s totally pork-free and gelatin-free.

Unlike many baked goods, monkey bread doesn’t require yeast or advanced skills. All you need is store-bought biscuit dough, cinnamon, butter, and sugar. Pair it with something creamy or fruity, like this delightful banana peach smoothie, and you’ve got a complete brunch moment!

What Is Monkey Bread?

Monkey bread is a type of sweet, sticky pastry made of dough balls rolled in cinnamon sugar, then baked in a Bundt or tube pan with a caramel-like glaze. The name comes from the way it’s eaten—pulled apart by hand, similar to how monkeys might eat.

While the recipe varies, this version keeps it simple and clean—using ingredients without pork byproducts or gelatin.

Why This Is the Best Monkey Bread Recipe Easy Version

Unlike traditional baked goods that take hours, this version comes together quickly:

  • Uses only 6 ingredients

  • Prep takes less than 15 minutes

  • Perfect for holidays, brunch, or potlucks

In fact, with the help of a few pantry staples and the right technique, you’ll have an irresistible treat in no time.

Ingredients for Monkey Bread

Here’s a list of ingredients that keep this recipe simple and free of pork byproducts:

Ingredient Amount Notes
Buttermilk biscuit dough 3 cans NS
White sugar 1 cup Granulated
Cinnamon 2–3 teaspoons Adjust to taste
Brown sugar ½ cup Light or dark
Unsalted butter 2 sticks (1 cup) Or use vegan butter
Optional: raisins or nuts ½ cup Ensure they’re additive-free

To get started, gather these kitchen essentials:

  • Bundt or tube pan

  • Mixing bowl

  • Gallon-size zip-top bag

  • Small saucepan

  • Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)

ingredients babana bread

Step-by-Step: How to Make Monkey Bread Recipe Easy

1. Prep the Dough

  • Open all 3 cans of buttermilk biscuits.

  • Cut each biscuit into quarters.

2. Make Cinnamon Sugar

  • In a zip-top bag, combine: 1 cup sugar, 2–3 tsp cinnamon

  • Add dough pieces to the bag and shake until fully coated.

3. Layer the Dough

  • Arrange the coated dough balls evenly in your greased Bundt pan.

4. Create the Glaze

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt: 2 sticks butter, ½ cup brown sugar

  • Stir until smooth and pour over the biscuit layers.

5. Bake

  • Place in preheated oven at 350°F for 30–40 minutes.

  • Top should be deeply golden and bubbling.

6. Cool & Serve

  • Let cool for 10–15 minutes.

  • Invert pan onto a plate and lift slowly.

glaze-being-poured-slowly-over-layered-dough

Variations of This Monkey Bread Recipe

Try these fun and flavorful twists:

  • Vegan: Use plant-based dough and butter

  • Nutty: Add pecans or walnuts

  • Fruity: Toss in chopped dates or raisins

  • Chocolate: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips between layers

  • Savory (No Meat): Use garlic, cheese, and herbs for a snack bread

How to Serve It

This dish is super versatile. Try it:

  • As a brunch centerpiece

  • Alongside coffee or tea

  • At holiday tables or gatherings

  • With a drizzle of cream cheese glaze

monkey-bread-brunch

Storing and Reheating Monkey Bread

Storing:

  • Cover tightly and keep at room temperature for 2–3 days.

  • Avoid refrigeration—it dries out faster.

Reheating:

  • Microwave small portions for 30 seconds

  • Or reheat in a 300°F oven, covered with foil for 10–15 mins

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Undercooked center: Bake until deep golden brown

  • Dough not sticking: Ensure sugar coating is thorough

  • Burnt glaze: Avoid overheating butter-sugar mix

  • Stuck to pan: Use nonstick spray or high-fat glaze

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving Approx.)

Nutrient Amount
Calories ~290
Sugar ~22g
Carbs ~33g
Fat ~16g
Protein ~3g

✅ To reduce sugar or fat, try swapping for coconut sugar or light butter alternatives.

FAQs — People Also Ask

🔹 Why do they call it monkey bread?

Because you pull pieces off with your fingers, like how monkeys eat!

🔹 Can I make monkey bread the night before?

Yes. Assemble it, refrigerate, and bake the next morning. Bring to room temp first.

🔹 Can I freeze monkey bread?

Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat in the oven.

🔹 Can I make this without a Bundt pan?

Absolutely. Use a tube pan or even a muffin tin for mini monkey breads.

🔹 Does it have to be eaten warm?

Warm is ideal for gooeyness, but it’s still tasty at room temp.

🔹 Is monkey bread breakfast or dessert?

Both! Traditionally served at breakfast but sweet enough for dessert.

Final Thoughts: Monkey Bread Made Simple

So there you have it—a monkey bread recipe easy enough for any home cook and adaptable for various dietary preferences. With minimal ingredients, simple steps, and maximum flavor, this pull-apart bread is a crowd-pleasing classic that’s hard to resist.

👉 Try it today and don’t forget to tag your photos on social media using #MonkeyBreadEasy!

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