Are you craving a warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible dessert but short on time? Look no further! This monkey bread recipe using frozen bread dough is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. It's surprisingly easy, incredibly delicious, and requires minimal prep time – making it one of the best recipes for even the most novice bakers. Get ready to experience homemade comfort food at its finest! This easy recipe is perfect for those searching for quick dinner ideas or simply a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound frozen bread dough, thawed (according to package instructions)
- 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 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan generously with butter or cooking spray. This ensures your monkey bread doesn't stick and bakes evenly.
Prepare the Coating:
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well until everything is thoroughly incorporated. If using nuts, add them now and stir gently to coat.
Assemble the Monkey Bread:
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Once the bread dough is thawed, gently pull it apart into small pieces. Don't worry about perfect uniformity; rustic is charming!
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Dip each piece of dough into the butter-sugar mixture, ensuring it's coated evenly.
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Arrange the coated dough pieces in the prepared baking pan, creating a somewhat even layer.
Bake and Enjoy:
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the monkey bread is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C). Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
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Let the monkey bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, and serve warm. This delicious dish is perfect for sharing – or keeping all to yourself!
Tips for the Best Monkey Bread:
- Thaw completely: Make sure your bread dough is fully thawed before you start. This ensures it pulls apart easily and bakes evenly.
- Don't overbake: Keep an eye on your monkey bread as it bakes. Overbaking can result in dryness.
- Get creative with toppings: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, spices, or even chocolate chips!
Variations:
- Caramel Monkey Bread: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra decadent treat.
- Apple Cinnamon Monkey Bread: Add diced apples to the dough mixture for a delicious fall twist.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of milk or vanilla extract for a tangy glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Protein: 5-7g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy monkey bread recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or any time you crave a warm, comforting, and delicious treat. Enjoy!