This is enriched dough drowned in butter and sugar, so real butter and fresh cinnamon are non-negotiable. The technique that makes the caramel cling instead of pool: toss every dough ball in cinnamon sugar, then pour hot butter-brown-sugar over so it seizes around each piece.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep30 min
Cook35 min
Makes10 servings
CuisineAmerican
Cost$$
Vegetarian
Contains dairy · gluten · tree nuts
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for10servings
All-purpose flour
For a soft enriched dough that tears apart in pillowy pieces.
A pinch over the top to keep the caramel from cloying.
to taste
Local / market
The Rundown
Greedometer●●●●●A fair little treat
A reasonable little indulgence. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Air fryerSheet pan
The Method
Proof the doughMix and knead the enriched dough, then let it rise until doubled. A full rise is what makes it tender rather than dense.
Dredge and layerPinch the dough into balls, roll each in cinnamon sugar, and layer into a buttered tube pan with pecans between.
Pour and bakePour hot melted butter and brown sugar over the top so it seizes around each ball, then bake at 350F until deep amber, about 35 minutes. Invert while warm.
Yes — bake it in a small pan or dish that fits the basket, at about 25°F below the recipe temperature. Air fryers run hot and fast, so check it early; no flipping needed.
Can you freeze Monkey Bread? — Yes
Yes — freeze it well-wrapped, then reheat or toast straight from frozen. Frost or glaze after thawing.
Can you make Monkey Bread ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — bake it a day or two ahead; it keeps well-wrapped at room temperature and freezes cleanly. Add any frosting or glaze close to serving.
Is Monkey Bread gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
Is Monkey Bread vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
Community Notes
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