Monkey Bread with Canned Biscuits

Monkey bread, that delightful pull-apart treat, is a nostalgic favorite for many. With its soft, buttery pieces coated in cinnamon and sugar, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together. The best part? You can whip it up in no time using refrigerated biscuit dough. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make Monkey Bread with Canned Biscuits that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the scrumptious world of sweet, gooey goodness!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works beautifully because it uses canned biscuit dough, which saves time and effort while still delivering a warm, comforting dessert. The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a classic flavor pairing, while the butter bath ensures each piece is rich and decadent. Using chopped pecans adds a delightful crunch, but it’s just as delicious without them. This recipe is designed for ease, making it perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy family gathering.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 ½ tablespoons butter (for greasing)
• 216 oz. package of refrigerated biscuit dough (I recommend using Pillsbury Grand’s Buttermilk Biscuits—do NOT use the flake ones)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon cardamom
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 16 tablespoons unsalted butter (or salted; if using salted, omit the salt)
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Bundt pan – for that classic monkey bread shape.
• Mixing bowls – to combine your sugar and spices.
• Whisk – for mixing your sugar and cinnamon evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – precision is key in baking.
• Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot pans!

Monkey Bread with Canned Biscuits: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your monkey bread bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Grease the Bundt Pan

Using 1 ½ tablespoons of butter, generously grease the inside of your Bundt pan. This step is crucial to ensure that your monkey bread comes out easily once it’s baked.

Step 3: Prepare the Biscuit Dough

Open the package of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Cut each biscuit into quarters. This will allow the pieces to soak up the buttery, sugary goodness as they bake.

Step 4: Mix the Sugar and Spices

In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and cardamom. Whisk them together until well mixed. If you’re using chopped pecans, feel free to add them to this mixture as well.

Step 5: Coat the Biscuit Pieces

Add the quartered biscuit pieces to the bowl with the sugar mixture. Toss them gently until each piece is well coated in the cinnamon-sugar blend.

Step 6: Layer in the Bundt Pan

Place half of the coated biscuit pieces into the greased Bundt pan. Then, in a separate bowl, melt the unsalted butter and mix in the light brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until combined. Pour half of this butter mixture over the biscuit layer in the pan.

Step 7: Repeat the Layers

Add the remaining biscuit pieces on top of the first layer in the Bundt pan. Pour the rest of the butter mixture over the top, ensuring all biscuit pieces are well coated.

Step 8: Bake

Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the biscuits are cooked through. If you’re unsure, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the Bundt pan from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert the monkey bread onto a serving plate. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the warm, gooey pieces of monkey bread with your loved ones!

Customize for Your Needs

• Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a twist.
• Flavor variations: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for seasonal variations.
• Nut alternatives: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try walnuts or almonds instead.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free biscuit dough if you need a gluten-free version.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Making monkey bread is typically straightforward, but a few common issues can arise:

• Dense or undercooked bread: Ensure you’re using the correct baking time and temperature. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
• Bread sticking to the pan: Make sure to grease the Bundt pan thoroughly before adding the biscuit pieces.
• Too sweet: Adjust the sugar amounts in the recipe to suit your taste preferences, especially if you’re adding sweet add-ins like chocolate chips.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Monkey bread is perfect for making ahead of time. Here are some tips:

• Prep the night before: You can prepare the biscuit pieces and coating the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake in the morning.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled monkey bread before baking. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat individual pieces in the microwave for a few seconds.

Ask & Learn

Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade biscuit dough will work just as well; just ensure it’s similar in texture and thickness to the refrigerated dough for the best results.

What can I serve with monkey bread?

Monkey bread is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side of cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk for dipping.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also refrigerate it for a longer shelf life.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk if needed.

Ready to Cook?

With this recipe for Monkey Bread with Canned Biscuits, you’re all set to create a deliciously sweet treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The ease of using canned biscuits combined with the classic flavors of cinnamon and sugar makes this recipe a must-try. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to pull apart some gooey goodness! Happy baking!