Introduction
Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread is a warm, pull-apart treat that combines the best parts of classic cinnamon rolls and sticky buns. It’s made with soft pieces of dough coated in cinnamon sugar, baked until golden, and topped with a sweet glaze. Whether you make it from scratch or use store-bought dough, this recipe guarantees a cozy, irresistible dish that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
For the Monkey Bread:
- 2 cans (about 16.3 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing packets included)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For the Glaze:
- Icing from the cinnamon roll cans
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional, for richness)
- 1–2 tbsp milk (to thin as needed)
Instructions / Method
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a bundt pan or tube pan generously with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cut and Coat the Dough
- Open the cinnamon roll cans and set aside the icing packets for later.
- Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters.
- In a large bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Toss the dough pieces in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Step 3: Layer the Bread
- Place half of the coated dough pieces evenly in the prepared pan.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Pour half of this butter mixture over the dough pieces.
- Add the remaining dough pieces on top, then pour the rest of the butter mixture over them.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pan.
- Carefully invert the monkey bread onto a serving plate.
Step 5: Add the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the icing packets, cream cheese, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm monkey bread.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm and let everyone pull apart their own piece.
- Pair with coffee, hot cocoa, or a glass of cold milk for the ultimate comfort treat.
- For extra indulgence, sprinkle chopped pecans or drizzle with caramel sauce before baking.