Name: Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 9 h
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 9 h 35 min
Yield: 14
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the dough:; 1 pkg active dry yeast; ¼ cup warm water; 1¼ cups warm 2% milk; ⅓ cup unsalted butter; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp salt; 5 cups all-purpose flour; For the Caramel Sauce:; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup packed dark brown sugar; 3 tbsp heavy cream; For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; ¾ cup pecans

Imagine pulling apart warm, sticky, gooey pieces of bread drenched in caramel sauce and coated with cinnamon-sugar. This homemade monkey bread is perfect for brunch, dessert, or as a delightful treat for any occasion. It's a fun and interactive way to enjoy a sweet, delectable bread that's both buttery and rich. The addition of pecans adds a wonderful crunch that complements the softness of the dough.

Photos of Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce Recipe

Some of the ingredients might not be commonly found in your pantry. You'll need active dry yeast, which is essential for the dough to rise properly. Also, dark brown sugar is used rather than light brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor. Heavy cream is necessary for the caramel sauce, providing a rich and smooth consistency. Make sure to pick up these items on your trip to the supermarket.

Ingredients For Homemade Monkey Bread With Caramel Sauce

active dry yeast: Essential for the dough to rise properly, giving you fluffy bread.

warm water: Helps to activate the yeast.

warm 2% milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

unsalted butter: Provides a rich, creamy flavor and texture.

granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with yeast activation.

eggs: Adds structure and richness to the dough.

salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.

all-purpose flour: The main structure of the dough.

dark brown sugar: Adds a deep caramel flavor to the sauce.

heavy cream: Provides richness and smoothness to the caramel sauce.

ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the cinnamon-sugar coating.

pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the bread.

One reader, Corabel Mott says:

This homemade monkey bread with caramel sauce is absolutely divine. The dough is perfectly soft and fluffy, and the caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery sweetness. The cinnamon-sugar coating gives it a delightful crunch. It's a hit at every gathering and so fun to pull apart and enjoy!

Corabel Mott

Techniques Required for Making Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

How to dissolve yeast: Dissolve yeast in warm water by stirring it around a bit and letting it sit for about 2 minutes until it becomes frothy. How to knead dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic for about 6 to 7 minutes, ensuring not to over-knead to avoid tough and chewy bread. How to make caramel sauce: Melt butter in a small saucepan, add brown sugar and heavy cream, and stir constantly over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Allow it to bubble for 3 to 4 minutes. How to prepare cinnamon-sugar topping: Combine cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl, and melt butter in a separate small bowl. How to assemble monkey bread: Dip dough balls in melted butter, roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and arrange them in a bundt pan with pecans. How to bake monkey bread: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, warm the caramel sauce, top the dough balls with half of the caramel sauce, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown. How to serve monkey bread: Cool for 5 to 10 minutes, invert onto a serving plate, warm the remaining caramel sauce, and drizzle over the bread before serving.

How To Make Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

Sticky and a real deli monkey bread that everyone will surely love. The bun is extra sweet with gooey caramel sauce and cinnamon-sugar spread on top.

Preparation: 9 hours

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 9 hours 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1pkgactive dry yeast,(2 and ¼ teaspoon) such as Red Star Platinum
¼cupwarm water
1¼cupswarm 2% milk,or whole milk
⅓cupunsalted butter,melted
¼cupgranulated sugar
2large eggs
1tspsalt
5cupsall-purpose flour,spoon & leveled

For the Caramel Sauce:

½cupunsalted butter,(1 stick)
1cuppacked dark brown sugar
3tbspheavy cream,no substitutions

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:

½cupunsalted butter,(1 stick) melted
1cupgranulated sugar
1tbspground cinnamon
¾cuppecans,chopped, optional

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Stir it around a bit and 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 in total.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead until smooth and elastic for about 6 to 7 minutes. Do not over-knead, which will lend tough and chewy bread.
The dough is ready when it is smooth and when you can poke it with a finger and it springs back. Form dough into a smooth ball and place into a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top.

Caramel Sauce:

The caramel sauce can be made ahead of time (up to 1 week) and heated in the microwave for 30 seconds before use. To make the caramel, melt the butter in a small saucepan.
Once melted, add brown sugar and heavy cream. Stir constantly over medium heat until sugar is dissolved.
Allow to bubble for 3 to 4 full minutes, no more. Set aside.

Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:

In a shallow bowl, combine cinnamon and sugar. In a separate small bowl, melt the butter. Set aside. Spray a 10 to 12 cup bundt pan with cooking spray. Set aside.
Punch the cold dough down very gently to allow the air bubbles to release. Pull apart pieces and roll into balls for about 1¼ inches in diameter.
Dip each ball, one by one, in the melted butter and then generously roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat them well.
Arrange 20 dough balls into the bundt pan. Sprinkle with ½ of the pecans. Top with remaining dough balls and pecans.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. When you are ready to bake, warm the caramel sauce up for about 30 seconds.
Stir and top the dough balls with ½ of the caramel sauce. Reserve the rest to pour on top after it is baked.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown on top. Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Cool for 5 to 10 minutes then invert it onto a large serving plate. Warm up the caramel sauce again and drizzle over the bread before serving.
Cut the bread into generous slices.

Recipe Notes

Monkey bread tastes best served on the same day but will stay fresh for 3 days if stored covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 524.91kcal
Fat: 24.29g
Saturated Fat: 12.77g
Trans Fat: 0.73g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.59g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.19g
Carbohydrates: 70.78g
Fiber: 2.70g
Sugar: 34.64g
Protein: 8.04g
Cholesterol: 79.20mg
Sodium: 197.10mg
Calcium: 67.63mg
Potassium: 165.72mg
Iron: 2.56mg
Vitamin A: 184.74µg
Vitamin C: 0.15mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

When making the caramel sauce, ensure you stir constantly over medium heat to prevent the sugar from burning and to achieve a smooth, glossy texture. Allow it to bubble for exactly 3 to 4 minutes to develop a rich, deep flavor without becoming too thick.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Monkey Bread

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This will streamline your process and prevent any last-minute searches.

Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer for kneading the dough. It saves time and ensures a consistent texture.

Pre-make caramel sauce: Prepare the caramel sauce up to a week in advance. Simply reheat it when needed.

Pre-cut dough balls: Shape and freeze the dough balls ahead of time. Thaw them before coating in cinnamon-sugar.

Use pre-chopped nuts: Buy pre-chopped pecans to save time on preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce Recipe

active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in place of active dry yeast. It doesn't need to be dissolved in water first and can be mixed directly with the dry ingredients.
warm water - Substitute with warm milk: Warm milk can be used to activate the yeast and will add a richer flavor to the dough.
2% milk - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk will add more fat and richness to the dough, making it softer and more tender.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in place of butter, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener, though it will add a distinct flavor and may make the dough slightly stickier.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) can be used as a vegan alternative.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in place of regular salt for a slightly different mineral content and flavor.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can give the dough more structure and chewiness.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, though it will impart a slight coconut flavor.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with light brown sugar: Light brown sugar can be used if dark brown sugar is unavailable, though it will have a milder molasses flavor.
heavy cream - Substitute with half-and-half: Half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.
unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used in place of butter, providing a nutty flavor and higher smoke point.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice can be used for a more complex flavor profile, though it will add additional spices.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can be used in place of pecans, providing a similar texture and slightly different flavor.

Presenting Your Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

Use a pristine white plate: Select a large, pristine white plate to allow the monkey bread to be the star of the presentation.
Create a caramel pool: Pour a small pool of warm caramel sauce in the center of the plate to act as a base for the monkey bread.
Arrange the monkey bread elegantly: Place the monkey bread in the center of the caramel pool, ensuring it is slightly off-center for a more dynamic presentation.
Drizzle with caramel sauce: Warm the remaining caramel sauce and drizzle it artistically over the monkey bread, allowing it to cascade down the sides.
Add a touch of gold: Lightly dust the top of the monkey bread with edible gold leaf for an opulent touch.
Garnish with pecans: Scatter a few whole pecans around the plate and on top of the monkey bread for added texture and visual appeal.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Place a small sprig of fresh mint or rosemary next to the monkey bread to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve with a side of cream: Accompany the dish with a small, elegant pitcher of heavy cream on the side, allowing diners to pour as desired.
Add a final touch: Lightly sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the entire plate to enhance the aroma and add a final layer of flavor.

Essential Tools for Making Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

Large mixing bowl: To dissolve the yeast and mix the initial dough ingredients.
Measuring cups: For accurately measuring the ingredients like water, milk, sugar, and flour.
Measuring spoons: For measuring smaller quantities like yeast, salt, and cinnamon.
Stand mixer: To beat the dough on medium speed for 3 minutes.
Wooden spoon: For stirring in the remaining flour by hand.
Floured surface: To knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
Greased bowl: To place the dough in for rising.
Small saucepan: For melting the butter and making the caramel sauce.
Shallow bowl: To combine the cinnamon and sugar for the topping.
Small bowl: For melting the butter used in the cinnamon-sugar topping.
Cooking spray: To spray the bundt pan to prevent sticking.
Bundt pan: To arrange the dough balls and bake the monkey bread.
Microwave: For heating the caramel sauce before use.
Oven: To bake the monkey bread at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Foil: To cover the bread if it browns too quickly.
Serving plate: To invert the baked monkey bread onto for serving.
Knife: To cut the bread into generous slices.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Monkey Bread

Allow the monkey bread to cool completely before storing to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Store the monkey bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
If storing at room temperature, the monkey bread will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, place the monkey bread in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 5 days.
To freeze the monkey bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Label the wrapped monkey bread with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When ready to serve, thaw the frozen monkey bread overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed monkey bread in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Store the caramel sauce separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To reheat the caramel sauce, microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until warmed through and smooth.

How To Reheat Leftover Monkey Bread

To reheat leftover monkey bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the monkey bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the bread loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out or burning. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Another option is to reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a slice of monkey bread on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 20-30 seconds, or until warm and soft.
For a quicker and more convenient method, you can also reheat the monkey bread in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the monkey bread in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
To reheat the caramel sauce, transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can reheat the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
If the monkey bread has become a bit dry after storing, you can brush it with a little melted butter or drizzle some warm caramel sauce over it before reheating to help restore moisture and flavor.
For a crispy exterior and soft interior, you can also reheat the monkey bread on a griddle or in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in the pan over medium heat, then place the monkey bread slices in the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.

Random Fact about Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

A fun fact about this monkey bread recipe is that it is believed to have originated in Hungary, where it is known as aranygaluska. The dough pieces are traditionally rolled in cinnamon-sugar and baked together, creating a pull-apart bread that is both sweet and sticky.

Is Making Monkey Bread at Home Cost-Effective?

This homemade monkey bread with caramel sauce recipe is moderately cost-effective. The primary ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter are pantry staples, while items like pecans and heavy cream might be pricier. The overall cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-$20 USD. Considering the indulgent nature and the number of servings, this recipe offers good value. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?

This homemade monkey bread with caramel sauce recipe is undeniably delicious but unfortunately falls into the unhealthy category. The main culprits are the high amounts of butter, sugar, and heavy cream used throughout the recipe. These ingredients contribute to a high calorie count and elevated levels of saturated fat and added sugars, which can lead to various health issues if consumed in excess.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter and sugar used in the dough, caramel sauce, and cinnamon-sugar topping. Experiment with alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates to add natural sweetness with added nutritional benefits.
Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and provide a more nutrient-dense base.
Opt for low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative to reduce the overall fat content.
Incorporate more nutritious ingredients like dried fruits, seeds, or whole grain cereals to boost the recipe's vitamin and mineral profile.
Serve smaller portions and pair the monkey bread with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt to create a more balanced treat.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delectable Monkey Bread Recipe

This homemade monkey bread with caramel sauce is a delightful indulgence. The combination of soft, pillowy dough balls coated in cinnamon-sugar and layered with crunchy pecans creates a perfect texture contrast. The caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery sweetness that elevates the dish to a decadent treat. The recipe is well-structured, allowing for make-ahead steps that simplify the process. However, ensure not to over-knead the dough to avoid a tough texture. Overall, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing, gooey, and flavorful dessert that's perfect for gatherings or a special breakfast treat.

Enhance Your Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine the velvety smoothness of roasted butternut squash soup paired with the sweet, gooey goodness of homemade monkey bread. The earthy flavors of the squash and the subtle hints of nutmeg and cinnamon in the soup will create a harmonious balance with the caramel-drenched dessert.

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: For a delightful contrast, serve crispy bacon-wrapped asparagus alongside your monkey bread. The salty, smoky bacon and the tender-crisp asparagus will provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet, sticky caramel sauce. It's a match made in culinary heaven.

Fresh Berry Salad: A fresh berry salad can add a burst of color and a refreshing tang to your dessert spread. The mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries tossed with a hint of mint and a drizzle of honey will complement the rich, buttery monkey bread perfectly.

Spicy Sausage and Cheese Platter: Create a spicy sausage and cheese platter to serve with your monkey bread. The bold flavors of spicy sausage and the creamy, tangy cheeses will provide a savory contrast to the sweet, caramelized bread. Add some crackers and grapes for an extra touch of elegance.

Herb-Infused Lemonade: Quench your thirst with a refreshing herb-infused lemonade. The zesty lemon and the aromatic herbs like basil or rosemary will cleanse your palate and enhance the flavors of the monkey bread. It's a delightful way to balance the sweetness of the dessert.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce

Sticky Toffee Pudding: Indulge in this classic British dessert featuring a moist date cake drenched in a rich toffee sauce. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.

Cinnamon Roll Pull-Apart Bread: Transform your breakfast routine with this delightful bread made from soft, buttery dough rolled in cinnamon sugar and baked to perfection. Drizzle with a sweet cream cheese glaze for an extra touch of decadence.

Apple Fritter Bread: Combine the flavors of apple fritters and bread in this delicious loaf. Packed with chunks of apples, swirls of cinnamon, and topped with a sugary glaze, it's perfect for a cozy morning treat.

Pecan Sticky Buns: Experience the ultimate breakfast delight with these gooey, caramel-coated buns. Filled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with crunchy pecans, they are sure to be a hit at any brunch gathering.

Salted Caramel Banana Bread: Elevate your classic banana bread with a swirl of homemade salted caramel sauce. The combination of sweet bananas and rich caramel creates a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for any time of day.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Homemade Monkey Bread

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked until golden and bubbly, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making them an irresistible appetizer. Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette rubbed with garlic. Top them with a fresh mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze. The combination of crunchy bread, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Main Courses:

Chicken Marsala: Indulge in the rich flavors of Chicken Marsala. This classic Italian-American dish features tender chicken breasts sautéed to perfection and smothered in a luxurious Marsala wine sauce. The sauce, made with Marsala wine, mushrooms, and a touch of cream, adds a depth of flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet. Serve it over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or al dente pasta to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Beef Wellington: Experience the elegance of Beef Wellington, a show-stopping centerpiece for any special occasion. This dish features a succulent beef tenderloin coated with a layer of mushroom duxelles and wrapped in a golden, flaky puff pastry. The duxelles, a finely chopped mixture of mushrooms, shallots, and herbs, adds an earthy richness that complements the tender beef. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables and a drizzle of red wine reduction for a meal that is both luxurious and unforgettable. A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the pastry before baking adds the perfect finishing touch.

Why trust this Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce Recipe:

This recipe for homemade monkey bread with caramel sauce is a tried-and-true favorite, perfect for any occasion. The dough is soft and fluffy, while the caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery sweetness. The cinnamon-sugar topping and pecans provide a delightful crunch and flavor. Each step is carefully detailed to ensure success, making it accessible even for beginners. Trust this recipe to deliver a delicious, crowd-pleasing treat every time.

If you've tried this Homemade Monkey Bread with Caramel Sauce recipe or have any tips to share, head over to the Baking and Desserts section of the forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How do I know when the dough is ready?

The dough is ready when it's smooth and elastic. You can test it by poking it with your finger; if it springs back, you're good to go.

Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the caramel sauce up to a week in advance. Just heat it in the microwave for about 30 seconds before using it.

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 even a loaf pan. Just make sure to adjust the baking time and keep an eye on it.

How do I prevent the top from browning too quickly?

If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil during the baking process. This will help it bake evenly without burning the top.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even leave the nuts out entirely if you prefer.