Are you craving a warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This recipe for Grandma's Famous Monkey Bread is the perfect answer. This pull-apart bread is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in. It’s one of those easy recipes that always impresses, and you'll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Get ready for a delightful homemade cooking experience!
Ingredients:
- 1 (16.3-ounce) can refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan generously with butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial for easy removal of your delicious monkey bread later on.
Step 2: Make the Sweet Coating
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. If using nuts, add them now and mix well. This creates the delightful sweet and cinnamon-spiced coating that makes monkey bread so irresistible.
Step 3: Coat the Biscuits
Separate the refrigerated biscuits. One by one, dip each biscuit into the butter-sugar mixture, ensuring they're fully coated. You might need to gently press them to ensure the coating adheres properly.
Step 4: Assemble the Monkey Bread
Arrange the coated biscuits in the prepared baking pan, placing them close together to form a cohesive bread. Don't worry about making it perfect; a rustic look adds to the charm!
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the monkey bread is golden brown and the biscuits are cooked through. The kitchen will fill with an amazing aroma during this time! Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid burning.
Step 6: Make the Glaze (Optional)
While the monkey bread is still warm, prepare the powdered sugar glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and enough milk to achieve a pourable consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the warm monkey bread, allowing it to set slightly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the monkey bread cool slightly before serving. Its warm, gooey, and irresistible texture is best enjoyed while still slightly warm. This delicious dessert is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Tips for Monkey Bread Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the biscuits to allow them to cook evenly.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your monkey bread and adjust the baking time as needed.
- Get creative with add-ins: Experiment with different nuts, spices, or even chocolate chips for a unique twist.
Variations:
- Caramel Monkey Bread: Add a layer of caramel sauce to the bottom of the pan before assembling the bread for an extra decadent treat.
- Apple Cinnamon Monkey Bread: Add diced apples and a dash of apple pie spice to the butter-sugar mixture.
- Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread: Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips to the butter-sugar mixture for a delightful chocolatey twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your exact ingredients. Expect a relatively high calorie, fat, and sugar content due to the nature of the recipe. It is best enjoyed as an occasional treat.
This easy recipe for Grandma's Famous Monkey Bread is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s a quick dinner idea dessert that's perfect for any occasion. The delightful aroma and incredible taste make it a truly memorable treat. Enjoy the deliciousness!