Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

why make this recipe

Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce is a delightful treat that brings joy to any breakfast or dessert table. It’s easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. This sweet, gooey bread pulls apart easily and is enhanced by a rich caramel sauce, making it irresistible. The combination of soft dough, cinnamon-sugar coating, and warm caramel creates a cozy, indulgent experience that everyone will love.

how to make Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 standard package (2 and 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast (such as Red Star Platinum)
• 1/4 cup warm water (110°F (43°C)-115°F (46°C))
• 1 and 1/4 cups warm 2% or whole milk (110°F (43°C)-115°F (46°C))
• 1/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 3 Tablespoons heavy cream (no substitutions)
• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
• optional: 3/4 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

1. Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 2 minutes. Add the milk, melted butter, sugar, eggs, salt, and 3 cups of flour. Beat on medium speed for 3 minutes. By hand, stir in enough remaining flour to form a firm dough, about 5 cups total.

2. Knead the dough: Knead the dough in the mixer for 5-7 minutes, or by hand on a lightly floured surface. If it gets too sticky, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of flour at a time. The dough should be soft but not dry. After kneading, poke it with your finger; if it slowly bounces back, it’s ready to rise.

3. Refrigerate the dough: Form dough into a smooth ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning to grease the top. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.

4. Make the caramel sauce: Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Add brown sugar and heavy cream. Stir constantly over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Let it bubble for 3-4 minutes and then set aside.

5. Make the cinnamon-sugar topping: In a shallow bowl, combine cinnamon and sugar. Melt the butter in a separate small bowl. Spray a 10- to 12-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray. Punch the cold dough down gently. Pull apart pieces and roll into balls, each about 1.25 inches in diameter. Dip each ball in melted butter and roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

6. Arrange the dough balls: Place 20 dough balls in the Bundt pan. Sprinkle with half of the pecans, then layer the remaining dough balls and pecans. If needed, cover the pan and let it rise for about 45 minutes at room temperature.

7. Prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Warm the caramel sauce for about 30 seconds and top the dough balls with half of it. Reserve the rest for later.

8. Bake the bread: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Cover loosely with foil if it browns too quickly.

9. Cool and serve: Cool for 5-10 minutes, then invert onto a large serving plate. Warm up the caramel sauce again and drizzle over the bread. Serve it as is or cut into pieces.

how to serve Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

It’s best to serve Monkey Bread warm, allowing guests to pull apart the gooey pieces easily. Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for a delicious touch. You can either cut it into slices or let everyone pick off their own pieces—perfect for gatherings and family brunches!

how to store Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

Store any leftover Monkey Bread covered at room temperature. It stays fresh for about 3 days but tastes best when eaten on the same day. If you have any caramel sauce left, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

tips to make Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

• Ensure your liquids are warm but not hot; this activates the yeast best.
• For a softer texture, don’t skip the kneading step—it’s crucial.
• Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even chocolate chips for added flavor.

variation

You can add different spices like nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mix or use different types of nuts. If you prefer a chocolatey version, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips among the dough balls.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. You can also make the caramel sauce in advance and store it in the fridge.

2. What if I don’t have a Bundt pan?
If you don’t have a Bundt pan, you can use a regular cake pan or a muffin tin. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

3. Can I freeze Monkey Bread?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

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