Irresistible Homemade Monkey Bread with Cinnamon and Walnuts

If you are craving a warm, gooey, and irresistibly sweet treat, look no further than Homemade Monkey Bread with Cinnamon and Walnuts. This delightful recipe blends soft, fluffy dough with a generous coating of cinnamon sugar and crunchy walnuts, making it the perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or cozy weekend mornings. Every bite melts in your mouth and promises to fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma that’s simply unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort food at its finest: The soft dough paired with cinnamon and walnuts creates a nostalgic, homemade feel you’ll crave again and again.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can whip up this treat without stress or fuss.
• Perfect for sharing: The pull-apart style makes it an ideal dish to enjoy with family and friends, creating moments of togetherness.
• Customizable flavors: Add or swap ingredients easily to suit your preferences without losing the magic of the recipe.
• Visual appeal: The golden crust with glistening caramelized edges and nutty bits makes it an eye-catching dessert or breakfast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Homemade Monkey Bread with Cinnamon and Walnuts lies in a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each plays a critical role in delivering the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and aroma from the dough to the crunchy walnut topping.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough that ensures a tender and soft texture.
• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: Combine for sweetness with brown sugar adding depth and caramel notes.
• Active dry yeast: Essential for making the dough rise beautifully, creating that fluffy bread texture.
• Warm almond milk (plant-based): Adds moisture and richness while keeping the dough tender and dairy-free.
• Vegetable oil: Provides moisture and softness in the dough and perfect non-stick quality during baking.
• Cinnamon (natural): The star spice that brings warmth and a sweet-spicy aroma to every bite.
• Chopped walnuts: For crunch and a nutty layer that complements the cinnamon sugar perfectly.
• Smoked turkey bacon (optional): Adds a savory twist balancing the sweet notes for those who love a hint of smokiness.
• Natural gelling agent: Used to enhance the sticky, caramel-like coating that binds the monkey bread together.
• Apple cider vinegar (natural): Activates the yeast gently and elevates the dough’s flavor complexity.

Variations for Homemade Monkey Bread with Cinnamon and Walnuts

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to tailor it easily depending on what ingredients you have on hand or your personal cravings. Whether you want to make it more indulgent, healthier, or add exciting new flavors, there is something here for you.

• Fruit twist: Try adding dried cranberries or chopped dates for extra bursts of natural sweetness and texture.
• Nut swap: Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds to change the flavor profile and crunch.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg along with cinnamon for a warm, aromatic blend.
• Smoky embrace: Incorporate smoked turkey slices chopped finely for a savory-sweet balance that excites the palate.
• Glaze variation: Use grape juice (natural) reduction drizzled on top for an extra glossy, fruity finish.

How to Make Homemade Monkey Bread with Cinnamon and Walnuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating your active dry yeast in warm almond milk mixed with a dash of apple cider vinegar (natural). Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Then, combine the yeast mixture with all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and a pinch of salt. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then cover and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.

Step 2: Shape the Dough Balls

Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and tear it into small pieces about the size of a walnut. Roll each piece lightly to form smooth balls, which will become the individual monkey bread bites.

Step 3: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar and Walnuts

Mix cinnamon (natural) with brown sugar in a shallow dish. Dip each dough ball into melted vegetable oil, then roll it thoroughly in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Sprinkle some chopped walnuts on the bottom and sides of the pan, then place coated dough balls snugly on top in layers.

Step 4: Add the Natural Gelling Agent Mixture and Bake

Prepare a sticky caramel-like sauce using brown sugar, apple cider vinegar (natural), and a small amount of natural gelling agent. Pour this mixture evenly over the dough balls to ensure a gooey finish while baking. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until the monkey bread turns golden brown and bubbling.

Step 5: Cool Slightly and Serve

Allow the monkey bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, enabling the caramelized topping to set slightly. Then invert onto a serving platter and watch everyone dive in for those irresistible pull-apart pieces.

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Monkey Bread with Cinnamon and Walnuts

• Use warm liquids: Ensure your almond milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast effectively without killing it.
• Don’t skip the rest time: Letting the dough rise fully is key to achieving that soft, fluffy texture everyone loves.
• Even coating: Roll each dough ball thoroughly in cinnamon sugar for consistent sweetness in every bite.
• Pan preparation: Lightly grease your baking pan to prevent sticking and help the monkey bread release easily after baking.
• Watch the baking time: Bake until golden and bubbly but avoid overbaking to keep the bread moist on the inside.

How to Serve Homemade Monkey Bread with Cinnamon and Walnuts

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar (plant-based) or a gentle glaze made from grape juice (natural) reduction can add an extra dazzle to the finished loaf. A sprinkle of extra chopped walnuts on top adds crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This sweet treat pairs phenomenally with a cup of hot herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee using plant-based milk. For a more filling breakfast, add fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the monkey bread in a rustic cast-iron skillet or a bundt pan for a charming, casual presentation. For parties, serve it as individual portions by placing a few dough balls in mini muffin tins and baking separately.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep it soft and flavorful.

Freezing

Wrap the cooled monkey bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes to revive the gooey texture and warm aroma. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust slightly crisp.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for added elasticity. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based milk and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. The recipe as written uses plant-based ingredients and is naturally vegan.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Yes, after kneading the dough, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking for best results.

How can I incorporate smoked turkey slices?

Chop smoked turkey slices finely and mix them with the walnut topping or sprinkle between layers of dough balls for savory bites interspersed with sweet ones.

What’s the best way to keep the monkey bread moist?

Don’t overbake and store any leftovers properly in an airtight container. Reheating in the oven rather than the microwave also helps retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Monkey Bread with Cinnamon and Walnuts is a warm, inviting dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its gooey sweetness and crunchy nuts create a perfect pairing for cozy mornings or festive occasions with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to make this delightful treat your new favorite baking project you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a treasured classic!

Related Posts

• Irresistible Vanilla Coffee Cupcakes with Creamy Frosting
• Irresistible Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies to Try
• Easy Banana Bread with Homemade Oat Flour Recipe

Print