Are you craving a warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This Monkey Bread recipe with butterscotch pudding takes the classic pull-apart bread to a whole new level of deliciousness. Imagine soft, tender bread soaked in a luscious butterscotch-infused butter mixture, then baked to golden perfection. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight treats, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your friends and family with minimal effort. Get ready for a delightful homemade cooking experience!
Ingredients:
- For the Bread:
- 1 loaf (1 pound) frozen bread dough, thawed
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Butterscotch Pudding Topping:
- 1 (3.4 ounce) instant butterscotch pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This is crucial for easy removal of the finished monkey bread.
Prepare the Bread:
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Cut the thawed bread dough into 1-inch pieces. If your dough is particularly sticky, lightly flour your hands to prevent it from sticking.
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In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the sugar is dissolved.
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Add the bread pieces to the butter mixture and toss gently until they are evenly coated. This is where the magic happens – making sure each piece is generously buttered and spiced.
Assemble and Bake:
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Arrange the bread pieces in the prepared baking dish, pressing them gently together. Don't worry about making it look perfect; the rustic look adds to its charm.
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Prepare the butterscotch pudding according to the package directions, using cold milk. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
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Once the pudding has thickened, pour it evenly over the bread in the baking dish.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the pudding is bubbly. The top should be beautifully caramelized.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the monkey bread cool in the dish for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the pudding to set slightly and the bread to firm up. Serve warm and enjoy! This delicious dish is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days.
Tips for the Best Monkey Bread:
- For even browning, rotate the baking dish halfway through baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; this can lead to uneven baking.
- If you prefer a crispier monkey bread, broil it for the last minute or two of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of bread dough; even leftover dinner rolls can be used!
Variations:
- Chocolate Monkey Bread: Substitute chocolate pudding mix for the butterscotch pudding.
- Caramel Monkey Bread: Use caramel sauce instead of butterscotch pudding.
- Nutty Monkey Bread: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the butter mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator with the exact brands and quantities used in your recipe. Generally, expect a dessert that's higher in carbohydrates, fat, and sugar.
This Monkey Bread recipe with butterscotch pudding is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple, quick dinner idea that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of warm, buttery bread and creamy butterscotch pudding is truly irresistible. Enjoy this delicious and easy recipe, and don't forget to share your creations with us!