Monkey Bread

If you’ve ever wanted a treat that’s irresistibly soft, sweet, and perfect for sharing, then this Monkey Bread recipe is going to be your new best friend. Imagine fluffy, cinnamon-kissed dough balls baked to golden perfection, with a subtle protein twist making it a bit more wholesome without sacrificing any of the joy. Monkey Bread is a delightful centerpiece for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dessert, and it’s so simple that you’ll find yourself making it again and again. The combination of Greek yogurt and protein powder creates tender, moist bites that pull apart easily, making it the ultimate communal treat to dive into with friends or family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s truly wonderful about this Monkey Bread is how the ingredients come together simply yet thoughtfully. Each one plays a key role in the texture, flavor, and overall experience, turning basic pantry staples into a show-stopping dish you’ll be proud to serve.

• Flour (1½ cup): Provides the essential structure and lightness to the dough; use your favorite type for a personal touch.
• Vanilla Protein Powder (½ cup): Adds a subtle sweetness and boosts protein, enhancing the flavor without overpowering it.
• Unflavored Protein Powder (½ cup): Keeps the dough tender while increasing nutritional value without altering taste.
• Baking Powder (2 tsp): Gives the bread its rise and fluffiness, so every bite is airy and soft.
• Baking Soda (¼ tsp): Helps with browning and a perfect rise when paired with yogurt’s acidity.
• Non-fat Greek Yogurt (2 cups): The star of moisture and tang, making the Monkey Bread irresistibly tender and rich in protein.
• Almond Milk (2 Tbsp): Used to help the cinnamon sugar stick to each dough ball beautifully.
• Zero Calorie 1:1 Sugar Replacement (3 Tbsp): Sweetens the bread with none of the guilt, blending seamlessly with cinnamon.
• Cinnamon (1½ tsp): Infuses every bite with the warm, comforting spice that makes Monkey Bread so addictive.
• Chopped Pecans (optional, 2 Tbsp): Sprinkle on the bottom for a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.

How to Make Monkey Bread

Step 1: Get Ready and Prep Your Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and give your loaf pan a light buttering. This ensures that your Monkey Bread won’t stick and will slide out easily once baked. If you’re using pecans, spread them evenly on the bottom now so they’ll toast perfectly underneath.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, vanilla protein powder, unflavored protein powder, baking powder, and baking soda. Mixing these dry ingredients well makes sure every bite has that perfect balance of lift and flavor.

Step 3: Add the Yogurt and Form the Dough

Next, add the Greek yogurt to the dry mix and fold everything together gently until you get large sticky clumps. Watch out — do not over-mix here! Overworking the protein powder can make the bread tough, so a gentle touch preserves that tender texture we’re after.

Step 4: Shape the Dough Balls

Moisten your palms with a little water to control stickiness, and divide the dough into about 25 equal pieces, roughly two tablespoons each. Roll each piece into a ball, wetting your hands as needed. These are the cute little nuggets that come together to form your amazing Monkey Bread.

Step 5: Dip and Coat the Balls

Now for the fun part! Pour the almond milk into a small bowl, and in another shallow dish, mix the sugar replacement and cinnamon. Take each dough ball, dip it first into the milk, then coat it well in the cinnamon sugar, and nestle it snugly in your prepared loaf pan.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your assembled Monkey Bread for 20 minutes uncovered, then cover with foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This two-stage baking keeps the bread soft inside while giving it a nicely browned crust that’s simply irresistible.

How to Serve Monkey Bread

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar over warm Monkey Bread right out of the oven for a subtle sparkle and flavor boost. Some toasted pecan halves on top also bring a lovely nutty contrast and a rustic look that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

This Monkey Bread pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries or a simple fruit compote to balance its sweetness. For an indulgent brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or a creamy yogurt dip, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures on your table.

Creative Ways to Present

Monkey Bread looks stunning pulled apart on a large wooden board or stacked on a tiered dessert stand for parties. You can even drizzle a light glaze or warmed nut butter over the top for extra decadence. Presenting it family-style encourages everyone to grab a piece and share in the joy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Monkey Bread left (though it’s usually devoured quickly!), place it in an airtight container and store it at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps it soft and fresh, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast.

Freezing

Monkey Bread freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing to avoid freezer burn. When stored properly, it can last up to a month, so you can enjoy this treat anytime inspiration strikes.

Reheating

To bring your Monkey Bread back to life, warm individual portions in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or heat the whole loaf in a 300°F oven wrapped in foil for 10-15 minutes. This revives that freshly baked softness and makes it just as enjoyable as when it was first made.

FAQs

What makes Monkey Bread different from regular bread?

Monkey Bread consists of small dough balls coated in cinnamon sugar and baked together, creating a pull-apart bread experience that’s soft, sweet, and fun to eat — unlike a traditional loaf which is sliced.

Can I use regular sugar instead of sugar replacement?

Absolutely! Using regular sugar will give a slightly different sweetness and texture, but feel free to swap it in if you prefer or don’t have sugar substitute on hand.

Is it possible to make Monkey Bread vegan?

Yes, swap the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use vegan protein powders plus a dairy-free milk alternative. Keep in mind texture might vary slightly but it will still taste delicious.

How long does it take to prepare Monkey Bread from start to finish?

Preparation is quick, about 15 minutes, with baking time around 35 minutes. So you’ll have warm, homemade Monkey Bread on your table in under an hour.

Can I add different nuts or mix-ins?

Definitely! You can experiment with walnuts, almonds, or even miniature chocolate chips mixed into or sprinkled on top for your own special twist on Monkey Bread.

Final Thoughts

This Monkey Bread recipe has a special way of bringing people together, whether around the breakfast table or during a cozy afternoon treat. Its tender texture, warm cinnamon flavor, and easy pull-apart style make it an absolute joy to bake and share. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!

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