Monkey Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

  • ★
    ★
  • ★
    ★
  • ★
    ★
  • ★
    ★
  • ★
    ★
(1)

Recipe Intro From nourkanny

Monkey bread is a delightful pull-apart bread that combines soft, pillowy dough, buttery cinnamon sugar, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings, brunches, or indulgent snacks, this recipe will fill your kitchen with the warm aroma of cinnamon and have everyone reaching for more. Plus, it’s easy to make and completely worth the time!

Jump to Section
  • Recipe Card
Prep time: 20mins
Cook time: 35mins
Serves or Makes: 8-10 servings

Recipe Card

ingredients

For the Dough

  • 4 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup full-fat milk (warm, about 110°F)
  • 1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 3 tablespoons milk powder (such as Nido)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

ingredients

For the Coating

  • 7 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

ingredients

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 ounces (1 block) softened cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

Method

  • Step 1

    Make the Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, warm milk, warm water, milk powder, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed using the dough hook attachment for 10-12 minutes, until the dough comes together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be slightly sticky but smooth.

  • Step 2

    First Proof: Lightly oil your hands and transfer the dough to an oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it proof in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

  • Step 3

    Shape and Coat: Once proofed, punch down the dough and divide it into small, uneven portions (about 1-2 inches each). Roll each piece into a ball. Place the dough balls in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted butter over the dough balls and gently toss to coat. Sprinkle the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt over the top, and carefully mix until evenly coated.

  • Step 4

    Assemble: Grease a bundt pan or large cake pan with butter. Transfer the coated dough balls into the pan, layering them loosely. Cover the pan and let the dough proof for another 50 minutes, or until puffy.

  • Step 5

    Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the monkey bread for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is cooked through. Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes in the pan before inverting onto a serving plate.

  • Step 6

    Prepare the Frosting: While the bread bakes, beat the cream cheese and butter together on high speed until smooth. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar, and mix until fluffy and fully incorporated.

  • Step 7

    Serve: Drizzle the frosting over the warm monkey bread, letting it seep into the layers. Serve immediately and enjoy!