Delicious Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread Recipe – A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion

Cinnamon roll monkey bread is the perfect blend of two classic favorites: gooey cinnamon rolls and delightful monkey bread. This pull-apart treat is irresistible, with layers of sweet, spiced dough coated in butter and sugar. It's great for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert, making it versatile and loved by many. If you’re looking for a fun and delicious recipe to share with family or friends, this cinnamon roll monkey bread is the answer!

A Special Memory with Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy weekend mornings spent baking with family. The aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen brings back memories of laughter and the anticipation of enjoying a warm, sweet treat together. If you’re new to baking or just want a simple recipe that’s bound to impress, this cinnamon roll monkey bread is a wonderful choice. It's easy to make, using store-bought cinnamon rolls, so there’s no need to worry about complicated steps or long preparation times.

Recipe Overview

Cinnamon roll monkey bread is a pull-apart bread made by layering pieces of cinnamon roll dough, coated in cinnamon sugar, in a bundt pan. The result is a deliciously gooey and soft bread that you can easily share. The cinnamon-sugar coating adds a wonderful crunch to the edges while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. The final touch is a generous drizzle of icing, adding to its sweet indulgence.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (about 16 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) for added crunch

Substitutions: If you prefer, you can make your own cinnamon roll dough from scratch. You can also use a dairy-free butter substitute for a vegan option, or add raisins or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This will be used to coat the dough pieces.
3. Cut the cinnamon rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and separate each roll. Cut each roll into quarters, creating small pieces.
4. Coat the dough: Roll each piece of dough in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring it is well coated. Place the coated dough pieces in the prepared bundt pan.
5. Add optional ingredients: If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them evenly over the dough layers for added texture.
6. Prepare the butter mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture evenly over the dough in the bundt pan.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through. Be careful not to overbake, as this can make the bread dry.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Drizzle with the icing from the cinnamon roll cans before serving.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a dusting of cinnamon sugar on top of the icing.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This cinnamon roll monkey bread serves approximately 8-10 people, depending on portion sizes. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch, holiday gathering, or simply as a dessert after dinner. Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. Pairing it with a cup of hot coffee or tea adds a comforting touch to the experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover cinnamon roll monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes. If you wish to freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, storing it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw it at room temperature before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make cinnamon roll monkey bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough pieces and coat them in cinnamon sugar the night before. Cover the bundt pan tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.

Why is my cinnamon roll monkey bread falling apart?

It could be due to not allowing the bread to cool properly before removing it from the pan. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes in the bundt pan to ensure it holds together when inverted.

Can I add other flavors or toppings?

Absolutely! Try adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a caramel drizzle for an extra special touch. You can also use cream cheese icing instead of the provided icing for a richer flavor.

Conclusion

Cinnamon roll monkey bread is a versatile, delicious treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch, holiday gathering, or just indulging in a sweet craving, this recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try, and don't forget to share your results in the comments. Happy baking!