There’s something truly comforting about a warm slice of cinnamon roll monkey bread, especially when it’s fresh out of the oven. This delightful treat combines the best elements of sweet Cinnamon Rolls and pull-apart monkey bread, creating an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any gathering, from family breakfasts to festive celebrations.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Growing up, my family had a tradition of baking this delicious dish on holiday mornings. The aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the air was our wake-up call and the perfect way to start a cozy day at home. This recipe has since become a staple in our household, always bringing back those cherished memories of laughter and togetherness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cinnamon Roll monkey bread is a showstopper at any brunch or dessert table. With its gooey cinnamon sugar coating and soft pull-apart texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time thanks to a simple ingredient list.
Ingredients Notes
The secret to this recipe’s simplicity lies in using pre-made Cinnamon Roll dough. It saves time without compromising on flavor. Look for high-quality dough in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. For added flavor, you can customize the filling with chopped nuts or raisins.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a Bundt pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray, ensuring all crevices are coated to prevent sticking.
Step 2
Open the Cinnamon Roll cans and separate the rolls. Cut each roll into quarters. This will make them easier to arrange in the Bundt pan.
Step 3
In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and a tablespoon of cinnamon. Roll each dough quarter in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Arrange them evenly in the Bundt pan.
Step 4
Melt butter and Brown Sugar over medium heat in a small saucepan, stirring until combined into a rich caramel sauce. Pour this mixture evenly over the arranged dough pieces in the pan.
Step 5
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the caramel is bubbling. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes before flipping it onto a serving platter. Enjoy as is or drizzle with the included icing from the cinnamon roll package for extra sweetness.
Storage Options
Leftover monkey bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to one month. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a different flavor twist, consider adding 1/2 cup of pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture. If you’re catering to dietary needs, opt for a gluten-free cinnamon roll dough available in some grocery stores. Enhance the aroma by incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the brown sugar syrup.
Serving Suggestions
This decadent treat is perfect for leisurely weekend breakfasts, special occasions like birthdays, or holiday celebrations such as Christmas morning. Serve it warm, straight from the oven, paired with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a truly indulgent experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the monkey bread ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the monkey bread a day in advance. Simply cover the Bundt pan with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Bake it as directed the next day, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I use if I don’t have a Bundt pan? If a Bundt pan is unavailable, you can use a regular cake pan or a loaf pan. The baking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness by ensuring the center pieces are fully cooked.
How can I make this recipe vegan? To make a vegan version of this dish, substitute the cinnamon roll dough with a vegan alternative and use plant-based butter and a non-dairy milk glaze for icing. Ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly, as some brands use bone char in processing.
Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans cinnamon rolls Pillsbury or similar
- 0.5 cup sugar granulated
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1 cup butter melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters.
- Combine sugar and cinnamon in a large zip-top bag.
- Add the cinnamon roll quarters to the bag and shake to coat.
- Place the coated pieces into a greased bundt pan.
- Pour melted butter over the cinnamon roll pieces.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Invert onto a plate while still warm and serve.
