Monkey bread, a delightful and whimsically named baked treat, traces its origins to Hungary, where it is known as arany galuska, meaning “golden dumpling.” The concept migrated to the United States with Eastern European immigrants, and over time, it evolved into the beloved monkey bread we know today. The name “monkey bread” is said to arise from the playful, finger-picking manner in which people eat it, resembling the actions of a monkey.
This delightful pastry is made from bite-sized balls of dough coated in cinnamon sugar, layered in a bundt pan, and baked to golden perfection. The result is a pull-apart bread that’s both gooey and crisp, with an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen. The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of warm cinnamon, sweet sugar, and buttery goodness. It’s often enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat during gatherings.
Monkey bread’s popularity has soared over the years, becoming a staple at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and potluck dinners. Its appeal lies not only in its delectable taste but also in the communal experience it offers, as friends and family gather around to pull apart the soft, sweet morsels. Served fresh out of the oven, monkey bread is a comforting and shareable indulgence that has firmly established itself in the tapestry of American baked goods.
Monkey bread
Equipment
- 1 Mixer
Ingredients
- 3 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ½ cup whole milk warmed
- ¼ cup water warmed
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs
For coating
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit until frothy.3 ¼ cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour mixture, yeast mixture, warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.½ cup whole milk, ½ cup unsalted butter, 2 large eggs
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into small pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
- In a bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon for coating. Dip each dough ball in melted butter, then roll in the sugar-cinnamon mixture.½ cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- Layer the coated balls in the prepared bundt pan.
- Pour any remaining butter and sugar-cinnamon mixture over the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Great recipe