Pull Apart Monkey Bread (From Scratch)

Name: Pull Apart Monkey Bread (From Scratch)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 cups Flour; 1 tbsp Instant yeast; 1/4 cup Granulated sugar; 1 tsp Kosher salt; 2 Eggs; 80 g Butter (melted and cooled); 1 1/2 cups Milk (room temperature); 1 tsp Vanilla extract; 1 tbsp Cinnamon; 1 cup Granulated sugar (for coating); 115 g Butter (for dipping); 1/2 cup Brown sugar

Author: Noah Reed

Published: June 14, 2025

Homemade pull apart monkey bread fresh out of the oven

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Pull Apart Monkey Bread is a delightful and indulgent treat that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweet aromas. This dish is a symphony of soft, buttery dough pieces coated in a sugary cinnamon-sugar mixture, all drizzled with a luscious brown sugar sauce.

As you tear off a piece, you experience the joy of warm, gooey sweetness that transports you back to cozy family gatherings.

This recipe is not just a pastry; it’s a community experience where hands meet dough, and laughter fills the air. Crafting monkey bread from scratch is worth every minute, offering a wholesome touch to weekend brunches or festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love Pull Apart Monkey Bread! Firstly, the prep is easy, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices. With simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry, this recipe is adaptable for spontaneous baking sessions. It’s also incredibly family-friendly, letting everyone lend a hand in shaping the dough and dipping it in cinnamon sugar. You can choose to prepare it quickly or follow a more traditional, slow-rise method, depending on your time constraints. With minimal ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that promises satisfaction for everyone who gets to pull apart and savor it.

Ingredients for Pull Apart Monkey Bread (From Scratch)

5 cups Flour – The base for our soft and fluffy dough.
1 tbsp Instant yeast – To help the dough rise and become airy.
1/4 cup Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough.
1 tsp Kosher salt – To enhance flavor.
2 Eggs – Provides richness and moisture.
80 g Butter (melted and cooled) – Gives that necessary buttery goodness.
1 1/2 cups Milk (room temperature) – Helps to activate the yeast for the best rise.
1 tsp Vanilla extract – A hint of warmth in flavor.
1 tbsp Cinnamon – The aromatic spice that makes this dish special!
1 cup Granulated sugar – For coating the dough balls.
115 g Butter (or 1 stick of butter) – Another layer of buttery flavor for dipping.
1/2 cup Brown sugar (light or dark) – The luscious sauce that makes this monkey bread unforgettable!

Step-by-Step Directions for Pull Apart Monkey Bread (From Scratch)

Start by adding 5 cups of flour, 1 tbsp instant yeast, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar into the bowl of a stand mixer. Mix these ingredients using a spoon until well combined.
Next, sprinkle in 1 tsp kosher salt and mix briefly to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 1 1/2 cups room temperature milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 80 g melted and cooled butter.
Pour this mixture into the flour blend in your stand mixer. Mix on low speed until a rough dough starts to form.
Gradually increase the speed to medium and continue mixing for about 8 minutes or until the dough becomes smooth and silky.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow it to rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare a 12-cup bundt cake pan by greasing it generously with softened butter to prevent sticking.
Once risen, gently punch the dough down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a ¼-inch thick rectangle while ensuring the bottom doesn’t stick.
Break off small pieces of dough, rolling each into a ball using your hands. Dusting with flour can help if the dough is sticky.
Dip each ball into melted butter, then coat it with a mixture of 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon. Place them in the bundt pan until filled.
Once all dough balls are in the pan, cover it lightly with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 20 minutes.
For the luscious sauce, mix 115 g melted butter with 1/2 cup brown sugar until combined, and then pour it over the dough balls.
Bake in a 180°C (350°F) preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and puffed.
Let it cool for 5 minutes before inverting the pan onto a plate. A gentle tap helps release the monkey bread from the pan.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Pull Apart Monkey Bread turns out perfectly, consider these chef’s secrets. Use room temperature ingredients, as they help with a better rise in the dough. You can also experiment with flavored extracts like almond or maple to add a unique twist to your monkey bread. To elevate the presentation, sprinkle some chopped nuts or chocolate chips among the dough balls before baking. For a spicy kick, add a touch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Additionally, keep an eye on baking time, as ovens vary; a toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pull Apart Monkey Bread is perfect on its own, but you might want to take it up a notch. Serve it warm with a side of cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence. Pair it with a rich vanilla ice cream scoop for a delectable dessert, or enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness. Brew a strong cup of coffee or tea to complement your sweet treat perfectly, making it a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.

Nutritional Information

This indulgent Pull Apart Monkey Bread serves around 12 portions, offering a delightful treat for friends and family. Each serving contains approximately 300 calories, featuring a delightful mix of carbohydrates and fats from the sugar and butter. While it’s certainly an indulgence, it’s perfect for special occasions or casual family gatherings. Be mindful of portions if you’re watching your intake, but remember: treats like this are best enjoyed without guilt!

Storing Tips & Variations for Pull Apart Monkey Bread (From Scratch)

To store your leftovers, cover the Pull Apart Monkey Bread tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to two days. For a longer shelf life, you can freeze it for about 2-3 months. To reheat, wrap portions in aluminum foil and warm them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes.

You can also get creative with variations by adding in dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, or using different spices like cardamom or pumpkin spice in the dough. For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar content slightly.

Conclusion for Pull Apart Monkey Bread (From Scratch)

Ready to embrace the joy of baking? Pull Apart Monkey Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience meant to be shared and enjoyed with loved ones. Don’t wait any longer—roll up your sleeves and dive into baking this delightful treat! It’s the perfect recipe to create sweet memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQs

1. Can I make Pull Apart Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape it a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

2. What kind of pan should I use for Monkey Bread?

A 12-cup bundt cake pan is traditionally used, as it helps achieve that classic monkey bread shape. If you don’t have one, a round cake pan works too; just adjust the baking time.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Absolutely! You can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may alter the texture slightly.

4. How do I know when the monkey bread is done baking?

The monkey bread is done when the tops are a golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Can I add toppings or fillings?

Feel free to get creative! Chocolate chips, nuts, or even a drizzle of icing can be added before baking for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings!