Name: Crockpot Monkey Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated biscuits; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon; ½ cup brown sugar (packed); ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 large pinch salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 3 tablespoons milk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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The first time I made Crockpot Monkey Bread, I was searching for something that would not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also be easy enough to make on a busy weekend. As I stirred together the ingredients in my slow cooker, I could already imagine the delicious, gooey bread emerging later in the day. It’s incredible how just a few humble ingredients can transform into such a delightful dessert. This recipe quickly became a family favorite, perfect for lazy Sunday brunches or whenever I want to impress my guests with minimal effort. Everyone loves to pull apart the warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated pieces of bread, and the best part? It’s all made in one pot!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
3 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
180 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
310 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker

What Sets This Crockpot Monkey Bread Apart

It’s Incredibly Easy

One of the best aspects of making Crockpot Monkey Bread is how straightforward it is. You just mix, pour, and let the slow cooker do the work. There’s no complicated kneading or rising time, which means you can have a delicious dessert with very little effort.

Perfect for Sharing

This dish is more than just dessert; it’s a social experience! When you set a warm pot of Crockpot Monkey Bread on the table, everyone gathers around to pull apart the pieces. It’s a fun way to share food, and it often leads to laughter and good conversation.

Customizable Flavor

The base of this Crockpot Monkey Bread is simple, but you can easily make it your own. Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even swirl in some fruit jam between the layers of dough. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a great way to use up small amounts of leftover ingredients.

Gooey Goodness

When cooked, this bread becomes perfectly gooey and sweet, with a lovely caramelized exterior. The mixture of butter, sugar, and cinnamon creates a delicious syrup that soaks into the bread, making every piece a heavenly bite.

Ideal for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a casual get-together, or just a cozy night in, Crockpot Monkey Bread fits the bill. It’s versatile enough to serve as breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack!

Minimal Cleanup

Who doesn’t love a recipe that doesn’t require a mountain of dishes? With Crockpot Monkey Bread, you only need a slow cooker and a few mixing bowls. After enjoying this delightful treat, simply wipe out your slow cooker and you’re done!

What Goes Into Crockpot Monkey Bread

The ingredients for Crockpot Monkey Bread are simple yet effective. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the deliciousness that awaits. The key players include the refrigerated biscuits, which form the base of the dish; sugar and cinnamon, which add sweetness and warmth; and butter, which brings everything together into a gooey, rich delight.

1 (16.3-ounce) can refrigerated biscuits: These pre-made biscuits are the star of the show. They easily tear apart and become the fluffy base of your monkey bread.
⅓ cup granulated sugar: This sugar adds sweetness and helps to create a delightful crust when cooked.
3 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The cinnamon brings a warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sugar, making each bite feel indulgent.
½ cup brown sugar, packed: Brown sugar contributes moisture and a deep caramel flavor that enhances the overall taste of the bread.
½ cup unsalted butter: Perfectly melted and poured over the bread, the butter makes everything rich and gooey.
1 large pinch salt: A touch of salt balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
1 cup powdered sugar: This sugar is used for the final drizzle that adds a touch of sweetness and aesthetic appeal to your monkey bread.
3 tablespoons milk: Milk is whisked with the powdered sugar to create a simple glaze that finishes off the dish beautifully.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: It adds a hint of flavor that rounds out the sweetness and brings everything together.

Instructions for Crockpot Monkey Bread

Making Crockpot Monkey Bread is a delightful process that requires just a few simple steps. As you mix and layer the ingredients, you’ll find the anticipation building. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is just the beginning of the joy that awaits you!

Spray the pot of a 4-quart slow cooker or CrockPot with pan spray and set aside. This ensures that the crockpot monkey bread doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier.
Cut the 1 (16.3-ounce) can refrigerated biscuits into quarters. This will help the biscuits soak up the flavors and cook evenly.
Add the cut biscuits to a large ziplock bag along with ⅓ cup granulated sugar and 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon. Close the bag tightly, allowing room for air, and shake until all the biscuits are fully coated in the sugar and cinnamon. This creates a delicious sugar coating.
Carefully add the coated biscuits to the prepared CrockPot. If you like, sprinkle a small handful of the leftover cinnamon sugar over the biscuits before discarding the rest. This will add extra flavor.
In a medium bowl, heat ½ cup unsalted butter, ½ cup brown sugar, and a 1 large pinch of salt in the microwave in 30-second increments until all the butter is melted and the sugar is mostly dissolved. Stir until combined.
Pour the brown sugar mixture evenly over the biscuits in the CrockPot. Make sure to cover them well for the best flavor.
Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pieces around the edge start to brown and the center reaches an internal temperature of 190 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid overcooking.
Once done, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. This will be your glaze.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm monkey bread before serving. This final touch not only adds sweetness but also makes your Crockpot Monkey Bread irresistibly photogenic!

Things Worth Knowing

Monitor cooking time: Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker model. Start checking for doneness at the 2-hour mark.
Avoid overloading: Don’t overcrowd the pot; the biscuits need space to rise and cook properly.
Use quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the flavor. Opt for high-quality butter and fresh spices.
Let it cool: Allow the monkey bread to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the glaze set and makes it easier to pull apart.

Recipe Variations about Crockpot Monkey Bread

There are plenty of exciting ways to mix things up with Crockpot Monkey Bread. Here are some fun ideas that’ll keep this recipe fresh and exciting!

Add nuts: Mixing in some chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to the soft bread.
Chocolate chips: For a decadent twist, add chocolate chips between the layers of biscuit pieces.
Fruit puree: Incorporate some fruit jam or puree for a fruity flavor surprise.
Make it savory: Swap out the sugar for herbs and cheese for a savory version of monkey bread. Just keep it fun!
Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll be good for a day or two.
Freezing: You can freeze any leftovers! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer.
Pairing: Serve with coffee or a sweet tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch experience.

Pairing Suggestions for Crockpot Monkey Bread

When it comes to serving Crockpot Monkey Bread, there are plenty of options that can enhance your meal:

Fresh fruit: Pair with a side of fresh berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast to the sweet bread.
Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt or whipped cream can add creaminess and balance the sweetness.
Breakfast spread: This dish is perfect for brunch, so consider serving alongside eggs or a breakfast casserole.
Seasonal gatherings: It’s great for holiday gatherings, especially around Christmas or Easter.
Afternoon snack: Enjoy it as a sweet treat in the afternoon with a cup of coffee or tea.
Kids’ parties: Make it the centerpiece at a kid’s birthday party; kids will love pulling it apart!

FAQ

Monkey bread is a sweet, pull-apart bread made from pieces of dough that are coated in sugar and cinnamon. Traditionally baked in a bundt pan, it is known for its gooey texture and delightful flavor. The name ‘monkey bread’ comes from the idea that people can pull apart pieces of the bread with their fingers, just like monkeys do with food. It’s a fun, interactive dessert that everyone loves!

You can prepare Crockpot Monkey Bread in advance by mixing the ingredients and placing them in the slow cooker. However, it’s best to cook it just before serving to ensure it remains warm and gooey. If you want to prepare it fully in advance, consider reheating it in the microwave or slow cooker on low to retain its texture before serving.

To store leftovers of your Crockpot Monkey Bread, place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for about a day or two. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up in the microwave.

Absolutely! Crockpot Monkey Bread is incredibly versatile. You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even fresh fruit to the dough for an exciting twist. Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or even a splash of orange zest for a unique flavor profile!

Conclusion

Crockpot Monkey Bread is a truly special treat that combines simplicity with deliciousness, making it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe, as you’ll be amazed at how a few basic ingredients can come together to create something so delightful. Your family and friends will be so impressed, and you might just find yourself making it on repeat!