Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, especially when the recipe is as delightful as Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread. I still remember the first time I made this sweet treat; it was a chilly fall morning, and I wanted to create something special for my family. With the golden brown rolls and a sticky, sugary glaze, it felt like a warm hug on a plate. Each bite is a nostalgic journey back to simpler times, filled with the laughter and joy of those I love. Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch or a festive gathering, Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread has become a family favorite that never fails to impress.

Ingredients to Make Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating that irresistible flavor combination. The key players, like the cinnamon rolls, provide that soft and fluffy base, while the butter and brown sugar create a rich, gooey sauce that envelops everything in sweetness. Together, these ingredients come together harmoniously to create a delightful dish.

• 2 (17.5-ounce) cans cinnamon rolls (Pillsbury Grands) – The star of this recipe, these rolls are soft and pillowy, perfectly capturing the sweet cinnamon flavor.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – This adds sweetness and helps create the caramelized edges that everyone loves.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Essential for that warm, spicy flavor that defines cinnamon rolls.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted) – This adds richness and helps meld the flavors together.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar – Provides a deeper, more complex sweetness that complements the granulated sugar.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle depth of flavor that rounds out the sweetness.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

Creating Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread is a fun and rewarding process that results in a delicious treat. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delightful dish. Follow my lead, and you’ll have a stunning dessert in no time!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial as it ensures your Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
2. Generously grease a large, 12-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray and lightly flour it. This will prevent the bread from sticking and will help in getting the perfect release once baked.
3. Remove the dough from the cinnamon roll cans and cut each roll into quarters. The smaller pieces will soak up the flavors and create the signature pull-apart texture.
4. In a medium bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together. This mixture will coat the dough pieces, infusing them with that classic cinnamon flavor.
5. Toss the cut cinnamon roll quarters in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they’re fully coated. You want each piece to be bursting with flavor!
6. Once coated, place the roll pieces into the prepared Bundt pan. Arrange them as evenly as possible to ensure even baking.
7. Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. This will create a gooey sauce to pour over the dough.
8. Pour the butter and brown sugar mixture over the dough in the Bundt pan, ensuring every piece gets some love from the sauce.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 35 minutes. Check for doneness by ensuring the center is no longer gooey. The outside should be golden brown and beautiful.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 to 15 minutes. This cooling time will help the bread firm up a bit, making it easier to flip.
11. Once it’s still warm but no longer hot, carefully invert the Bundt pan onto a plate. Give it a little shake if needed to release the bread.
12. Finally, transfer the icing from the can into a plastic bag. Snip off a corner with scissors and pipe the icing all over the warm Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread for that final touch of sweetness.

Recipe Variations about Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

While the classic Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to switch it up. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough for an extra crunch.
• Chocolate Lovers: Toss in some chocolate chips with the dough pieces for a rich, decadent version.
• Fruity Addition: Mix in some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a hint of tartness.
• Glazed Delight: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the top after baking to enhance sweetness.
• Spicy Flair: Substitute some of the ground cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
• Stuffed Versions: Fill some of the dough pieces with a spoonful of cream cheese before coating them for a creamy surprise!
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. If you like, freeze them for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve this delightful treat with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

How to Enjoy Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

• Perfect for Breakfast: Enjoy Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread as a sweet breakfast option, paired with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
• Great for Brunch: This dish is a hit at brunch gatherings. Serve it alongside fresh fruit and a savory quiche.
• Holiday Treat: Make it a holiday tradition by preparing it for Thanksgiving or Christmas morning.
• Snack Time: It’s also great as a sweet afternoon snack. Just a small piece satisfies that sweet tooth!
• Serve Warm: Serve it warm right out of the oven for the best gooey texture and flavor.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover pieces in an airtight container and enjoy them for a few days.
• Gifts from the Kitchen: Wrap some up to give as homemade gifts; everyone loves a tasty treat!

FAQ

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread is a deliciously sweet and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its gooey center and caramelized exterior, it’s sure to become a favorite among family and friends. I encourage you to try your hand at this delightful recipe; it may just become a cherished part of your own family traditions!

Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

The ultimate comfort food, Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread combines soft, gooey bread with sweet, cinnamon flavors. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this easy treat is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Indulge your senses and make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 5 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cans cinnamon rolls (Pillsbury Grands)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

• Bundt pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial as it ensures your Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
2. Generously grease a large, 12-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray and lightly flour it. This will prevent the bread from sticking and will help in getting the perfect release once baked.
3. Remove the dough from the cinnamon roll cans and cut each roll into quarters. The smaller pieces will soak up the flavors and create the signature pull-apart texture.
4. In a medium bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together. This mixture will coat the dough pieces, infusing them with that classic cinnamon flavor.
5. Toss the cut cinnamon roll quarters in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they're fully coated. You want each piece to be bursting with flavor!
6. Once coated, place the roll pieces into the prepared Bundt pan. Arrange them as evenly as possible to ensure even baking.
7. Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. This will create a gooey sauce to pour over the dough.
8. Pour the butter and brown sugar mixture over the dough in the Bundt pan, ensuring every piece gets some love from the sauce.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 35 minutes. Check for doneness by ensuring the center is no longer gooey. The outside should be golden brown and beautiful.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 to 15 minutes. This cooling time will help the bread firm up a bit, making it easier to flip.
11. Once it’s still warm but no longer hot, carefully invert the Bundt pan onto a plate. Give it a little shake if needed to release the bread.
12. Finally, transfer the icing from the can into a plastic bag. Snip off a corner with scissors and pipe the icing all over the warm Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread for that final touch of sweetness.

Notes

• Tip 1: Only keep Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread in the fridge if using cream cheese icing. Otherwise, it’s best covered at room temperature to avoid hardening.
• Tip 2: To freeze, wrap leftovers tightly and store in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge.
• Tip 3: Freezing affects texture and flavor. Don’t freeze uncooked dough.

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.