Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread Recipe

Cinnamon rolls: Pre-packaged rolls that come with icing, found in the refrigerated section.

Granulated sugar: Common white sugar used for sweetness.

Ground cinnamon: Spice that adds warmth and flavor.

Melted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.

Brown sugar: Adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.

When preparing the cinnamon rolls, make sure to cut them into uniform quarters to ensure even baking. Rolling each piece in the cinnamon sugar mixture thoroughly will help create a consistent flavor and texture throughout the monkey bread. When pouring the melted butter and brown sugar mixture over the pieces, do so slowly and evenly to ensure that every piece is coated, which will result in a gooey, caramelized finish.

• 2 cans with icing cinnamon rolls - Substitute with 2 cans of refrigerated biscuit dough: Biscuit dough can provide a similar texture and can be flavored with ground cinnamon and sugar to mimic the taste of cinnamon rolls.

• ½ cup granulated sugar - Substitute with ½ cup coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and can add a slight caramel flavor that complements the cinnamon.

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - Substitute with 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, spicy flavor that can be a good alternative to cinnamon.

• ½ cup melted butter - Substitute with ½ cup melted coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the monkey bread.

• ½ cup brown sugar - Substitute with ½ cup maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a similar sweetness and a unique flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon and butter.

• Allow the cinnamon roll monkey bread to cool completely before storing. This ensures that condensation doesn't make it soggy.
• Wrap the monkey bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. Alternatively, place it in an airtight container.
• Store the wrapped or containerized monkey bread at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigeration is recommended.
• For refrigeration, place the monkey bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To freeze, wrap the monkey bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the package with the date to keep track of its freshness. The monkey bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the monkey bread in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the monkey bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 20-30 seconds.
• Drizzle any reserved icing over the reheated monkey bread before serving to restore its gooey, delicious texture.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the monkey bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the monkey bread with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
  5. Remove the aluminum foil for the last 5 minutes if you want a slightly crispy exterior.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the monkey bread on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 30-45 seconds.
  4. Check the temperature and heat in additional 15-second intervals if needed.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
  2. Place the monkey bread in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.
  4. Remove and let it cool slightly before serving.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over low heat.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet.
  3. Place the monkey bread in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even warming.
  5. Remove from the skillet and let it cool slightly before serving.

• Oven: Used to bake the monkey bread at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Bundt pan: Provides the shape for the monkey bread and ensures even baking.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the cinnamon rolls into quarters.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the ground cinnamon.

• Spatula: Helps in mixing the melted butter and brown sugar together.

• Plate: Used to invert the monkey bread onto after baking.

• Spoon: Useful for drizzling the reserved icing over the top of the monkey bread.

• Cooling rack: Allows the monkey bread to cool evenly for 10 minutes before inverting.

Pre-cut the cinnamon rolls: Cut the cinnamon rolls into quarters ahead of time to save prep time.

Use pre-made dough: Opt for canned cinnamon rolls to eliminate the need for making dough from scratch.

Mix dry ingredients in advance: Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon beforehand and store in an airtight container.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt the butter in the microwave instead of on the stove.

Line the bundt pan: Use a non-stick spray or line the bundt pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.