Name: Granny’s Monkey Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 cans premade biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury brand); 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Jump to Recipe

There’s just something magical about the aroma of warm sugar and cinnamon wafting through the house, isn’t there? Granny’s Monkey Bread is the ultimate comfort food treat—gooey, sticky, and bursting with flavor in every bite. What makes this recipe truly stand out is its delightful simplicity: a handful of pantry staples, a few minutes of easy prep, and you’re rewarded with a sweet pull-apart bread that’s sure to bring smiles to every face at the table. This was always the centerpiece at our family brunches, with everyone eager to snag the gooiest, most caramelized piece! If you love my crowd-favorite Cinnamon Roll Muffins, you simply must try Monkey Bread. The same golden, cinnamon richness but in a fun, shareable ring! So, gather the family, tie on your apron, and get ready to bake up some love—this is one recipe you’ll be making again and again.

What is Granny’s Monkey Bread Recipe?

Let’s be honest—‘Monkey Bread’ is a funny name, isn’t it? No monkeys involved, and certainly no bananas! The name comes from the way you eat it: everyone simply pulls apart pieces with their fingers, like a bunch of playful monkeys. The recipe itself is all about joy and togetherness, and every granny’s version is a little different. Mine always said, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and Granny’s Monkey Bread never failed her! If you haven’t tried making this nostalgic treat before, what are you waiting for? Grab those biscuit cans and jump in—it’s irresistible fun from start to finish.

Why You’ll Love This

Granny’s Monkey Bread is the breakfast (or dessert!) that dreams are made of. First and foremost, it’s the sticky caramel coating and melt-in-your-mouth dough that gets everyone hooked. Making it at home means you get a heaping serving for the price of just a few bakery slices—trust me, your wallet and your family will thank you. The secret, though, lies in the duo of white and brown sugars, melted butter, and cinnamon—each bite bursts with warmth and gooey goodness. Compared to my Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls, Monkey Bread is even quicker and perfect for feeding a crowd. If you love fun, fuss-free baking, this is your new go-to. Why wait? Give it a try and watch it disappear from the table!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Granny’s Monkey Bread is the epitome of easy, feel-good baking. With ready-made biscuit dough and a handful of kitchen staples, you can whip up this gooey treat in about 15 minutes of prep time and under an hour in the oven. What sets this apart is the simple assembly—just roll, dip, stack, and bake! The result? A decadent, cinnamon-caramel masterpiece that’s soft in the center with golden, sticky edges. Gather your ingredients and enjoy a sweet reward in less than an hour!

Freshly baked monkey bread with caramel glaze in a bundt pan, partially pulled apart to show gooey texture

Ingredients

4 cans of premade biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury brand)
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step

Preheat the oven and prep the pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a bundt or tube pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your monkey bread slips out easily after baking.
Mix the cinnamon sugar
In a medium bowl, stir together the cinnamon and granulated sugar until fully blended.
Prepare the biscuit dough
Open each can of biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Using kitchen scissors or a knife, cut each biscuit into quarters, creating bite-sized pieces.
Coat the dough pieces
Roll each biscuit piece in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated. Arrange the coated pieces loosely into the prepared pan, distributing them as evenly as possible.
Make the caramel sauce
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Stir together and microwave for about 30 seconds, just enough to dissolve the sugar into the butter. Give it another stir to blend everything well.
Pour and bake
Pour the buttery brown sugar mixture evenly over the layered biscuit pieces in the pan. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cool slightly and serve
Allow the monkey bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a large serving plate. Serve warm—the messier, the better!

What to Serve Granny’s Monkey Bread With

Monkey Bread is an absolute showstopper at brunch, but it also pairs wonderfully with so many other treats. Serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a light contrast, or pop in a few savory options like scrambled eggs and crispy bacon to balance the sweetness. Coffee, hot cocoa, or a spiced chai latte make the perfect cozy beverage pairing. If you’re planning a holiday breakfast, add a platter of breakfast sausages and roasted potatoes for a truly memorable spread!

Top Tips for Perfecting

For extra flavor, add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts in with the cinnamon-sugar mixture before layering.
If you’re short on brown sugar, a dash of maple syrup with granulated sugar can be a delicious substitute.
Don’t overbake! The edges should be golden and crispy, but the center should stay soft and pillowy.
Experiment with flavored biscuit dough for a unique twist—honey butter or buttermilk varieties work wonderfully.
Make sure you allow the bread to cool for at least 10 minutes before inverting, but not much longer—otherwise, that gooey sauce will stick.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Monkey Bread? It keeps beautifully! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. To reheat, simply place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and warm in 15-20 second bursts until soft and gooey again. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag—thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above. It won’t last long, though—this treat disappears quickly!

FAQs

Can I make Monkey Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the point of baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight, then simply bake fresh in the morning.

Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned?
Yes! Your favorite homemade dough works perfectly, though the prep time will be a bit longer.

How do I prevent Monkey Bread from sticking to the pan?
Generously grease your pan with butter or non-stick spray, making sure to get into all the grooves.

Can I add extras like nuts or raisins?
Definitely! Pecans, walnuts, or raisins add great texture and flavor—just sprinkle them in as you layer the biscuit pieces.

What if I don’t have a bundt pan?
No worries! An angel food cake pan or even a deep loaf pan can work in a pinch, though bake times may vary.

Conclusion

Granny’s Monkey Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a beloved tradition that brings people together. From the simple ingredients to that unforgettable gooey texture, it’s a treat that anyone can make and everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a cozy weekend, or a just-because moment, this monkey bread never disappoints. Ready to create a new favorite in your kitchen? Give Granny’s Monkey Bread a try and share the joy—it’s simple, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying!