Name: Mouthwatering Sourdough Monkey Bread – Your New Favorite Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Filtered Water (Warm (120°F)); 1 cup Sourdough Starter (Active and bubbly); 1/2 cup Cane Sugar; 1 large Egg (Room temperature); 1 tsp Sea Salt; 4 cups Bread Flour (Can substitute with all-purpose flour); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature and softened); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Packed); 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon; 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For glaze); 2 tbsp Whole Milk (For glaze consistency)

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Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about a warm, gooey treat that’s both fun to make and even more delightful to eat? Enter Sourdough Monkey Bread—a whimsical twist on traditional sweet breads that’s bound to spark joy in your kitchen. This beginner-friendly recipe combines the rich, tangy flavor of naturally leavened dough with a heavenly cinnamon sugar coating, all beautifully baked in a Bundt pan. Not only is it incredibly satisfying to pull apart, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that transforms any meal into a memorable occasion. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this sweet indulgence is sure to impress everyone at the table. Curious about how to achieve that soft, pull-apart perfection? Let’s dive into the sweet details!

Why is Sourdough Monkey Bread so special?

Gooey, Sweet Indulgence: Each piece of this Sourdough Monkey Bread is a delightful explosion of cinnamon and sugar, making it a satisfying treat for any occasion.

Beginner-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for all skill levels, so anyone can enjoy the process of creating this mouthwatering dessert.

Fun to Share: Break apart and serve this treat with friends and family; it’s guaranteed to become a beloved centerpiece at gatherings.

Versatile Delight: Perfect for breakfast or dessert, you can enjoy it warm on its own or paired with a cup of coffee, much like Cream Cheese Bread.

Easy Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it the night before to save time, letting it rise overnight in the fridge for a fresh, warm treat in the morning!

Impressive Finish: The beautiful Bundt shape adds a touch of elegance, ensuring this dessert looks as good as it tastes.

Sourdough Monkey Bread Ingredients

For the Dough

Filtered Water – Hydrates the dough; use warm water (120°F) for better fermentation.
Sourdough Starter – Essential leavening agent; ensure it’s active and bubbly for best results.
Cane Sugar – Sweetens the dough and enhances browning during baking.
Large Egg (room temperature) – Adds richness and aids in binding the ingredients together.
Sea Salt – Enhances flavor while strengthening the gluten structure for better rise.
Bread Flour – Provides the chewy texture; can substitute with all-purpose flour but adjust the quantity slightly.
Unsalted Butter (room temperature) – Contributes moisture and richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.

For the Cinnamon Coating

Brown Sugar (packed) – Sweetens the cinnamon mixture and creates a delightful caramelized topping.
Ground Cinnamon – Compliments the sweetness; adds a warm and comforting flavor.

Optional Topping

Powdered Sugar – For an optional frosting or glaze to add sweetness on top.
Whole Milk – Helps achieve a smooth consistency for the glaze if desired.

Now that you have the ingredients ready, it’s time to jump into the exciting process of creating your delicious Sourdough Monkey Bread masterpiece!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sourdough Monkey Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your active sourdough starter and warm water (approximately 120°F) until fully dissolved. Then, stir in the sugar and room temperature egg, mixing until combined. This initial step is crucial for activating the yeast, setting the foundation for your delightful Sourdough Monkey Bread.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift in the bread flour and sea salt into your dough mixture, creating a well-blended base. Gradually incorporate the softened unsalted butter until everything is combined into a shaggy dough. At this point, the dough will be sticky but should hold together, ready for the next phase in creating that irresistible monkey bread.

Step 3: Rest the Dough
Cover the mixing bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to prevent drafts. Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting stage helps the gluten relax, making it easier to knead and develop the perfect texture for your Sourdough Monkey Bread.

Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the rested dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 12 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook set to medium speed. The dough should spring back when poked, signaling it’s ready for the next step in this scrumptious process.

Step 5: Bulk Fermentation
Transfer the kneaded dough back into the bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot (about 72°F or 21°C) for 4-5 hours, or until it doubles in size. You can also opt for an overnight rise using room temperature water. This bulk fermentation develops flavor and contributes to the delightful texture of your Sourdough Monkey Bread.

Step 6: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Cut the dough into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 inch in size. In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll each piece in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well-coated, creating that irresistible flavor that makes Sourdough Monkey Bread a favorite.

Step 7: Second Rise
Grease a Bundt pan generously with butter, ensuring all crevices are coated to prevent sticking. Distribute the coated dough pieces evenly into the pan, layering them as needed. Cover once more and let them rise for about 2 hours until nearly doubled in size. This second rise is essential for achieving that pull-apart quality.

Step 8: Bake the Monkey Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, place the Bundt pan in the oven and bake for 35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges pull away from the pan. Keep an eye on the bread; it should be fragrant and visually appealing, inviting everyone to dig in.

Step 9: Cool & Serve
After baking, remove the Sourdough Monkey Bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. For an optional touch, whisk together powdered sugar and whole milk to create a glaze, then drizzle it over the warm bread, enhancing its sweetness and delivering a delightful finish.

Make Ahead Options

Sourdough Monkey Bread is perfect for meal prep, making busy mornings a breeze! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge, which not only saves you time but also enhances the flavor. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the second rise, then cover the Bundt pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour to take off the chill before popping it in the oven. This way, you maintain the gooey, pull-apart quality that makes this treat so delectable, allowing you to enjoy a warmly baked Sourdough Monkey Bread with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Sourdough Monkey Bread

Active Starter Check: Always ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and at its peak activity; this guarantees the best rise and flavor in your Sourdough Monkey Bread.
Water Temperature Matters: Use warm water around 120°F for mixing; it helps speed up fermentation, leading to a fluffier texture.
Knead Effectively: When kneading, aim for a smooth, elastic dough. This helps develop the gluten structure crucial for pull-apart perfection.
Avoid Overcrowding: While shaping, don’t overcrowd the Bundt pan—leaving room for the dough to rise evenly creates that iconic pull-apart effect.
Rest and Rise: Be patient! Allow adequate resting and rising times; it makes all the difference in achieving a delightful gooey interior.
Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Consider warming them before serving to revive their gooeyness!

What to Serve with Sweet Sourdough Monkey Bread

Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, warm piece of pull-apart bliss while sipping a steaming cup of coffee or tea—let’s create that cozy moment together!

Rich Cream Cheese Frosting: A luscious frosting complements the sweet bread, enhancing its indulgence without overwhelming the flavors. Perfect for those who love a tangy twist.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy berries or citrus blends awaken the taste buds, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm, gooey bread. It’s a lovely palate cleanser!
Savory Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: The saltiness of the bacon balances the sweetness of the monkey bread, creating an exciting flavor dynamic. These crisp bites offer a delightful texture contrast.
Honey-Drizzled Greek Yogurt: Creamy yogurt adds a smooth richness while the honey brings additional sweetness, making it a perfect pairing for a light and refreshing side.
Chai Tea: The spiced warmth of chai enhances the cinnamon tones in the monkey bread, offering a comforting beverage choice, especially on chilly mornings.
Maple Syrup: A drizzle of warm maple syrup elevates the sweetness, creating a delightful sticky element that pairs beautifully with every piece.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream serves as a perfect companion, melting into the warm bread and providing a sensational contrast of temperatures.

How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Monkey Bread

Room Temperature: Keep Sourdough Monkey Bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, wrapped well in plastic wrap or foil to maintain moisture.

Fridge: If stored in the refrigerator, consume within 5 days. Place in an airtight container to prevent the bread from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the monkey bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it regains its warm, gooey texture.

Sourdough Monkey Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Sourdough Monkey Bread with these fun variations that will elevate your baking experience and tantalize your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure the texture remains consistent in your dough.
Nutty Additions: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and a lovely nutty flavor. They provide a delightful texture that complements the sweet, gooey bread.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chunks to the dough for a rich, chocolatey twist. The melted chocolate will make every pull even more irresistible.
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or a touch of pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a surprising kick. This balance of sweet and spicy creates a uniquely delightful experience.
Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to make this treat dairy-free. It imparts a slight coconut essence that’s deliciously tropical.
Cinnamon Roll Twist: Sprinkle additional cinnamon and sugar between layers of dough pieces before syncing them together. Think of it as combining your favorite cinnamon roll flavors!
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate zest from an orange or lemon into the dough or coating. This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing twist, turning your monkey bread into a delightful citrusy treat.
Fruity Filler: Toss in some dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture. They’ll plump up while baking, providing bursts of flavor in every bite.

For a delightful pairing, enjoy this monkey bread alongside a warm cup of coffee or with a slice of Alfredo Garlic Bread for a comforting experience that’s sure to impress. Explore these variations and make this recipe your own!

Sourdough Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs

What kind of sourdough starter should I use?
Absolutely, you’ll want to use an active and bubbly sourdough starter for the best results. Check if it’s at its peak by feeding it and waiting until it’s doubled in size and full of bubbles. This indicates a strong fermentation process, which is crucial for creating that delightful, fluffy Sourdough Monkey Bread.

How should I store leftover Sourdough Monkey Bread?
To keep your Sourdough Monkey Bread fresh at room temperature, wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil. It should last for up to 3 days. If you’re storing it in the fridge, place it in an airtight container, but aim to consume it within 5 days to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Sourdough Monkey Bread?
Yes, indeed! For optimal freezing, first wrap the Sourdough Monkey Bread tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that gooey texture.

Why did my monkey bread not rise properly?
Very often, improper rising can stem from using a sluggish sourdough starter or too cold of an environment. Ensure your starter is lively and warmed correctly; ideally, your dough should rise in a warm, draft-free location. If it’s not rising, give it more time, as sourdough bread can be a bit temperamental compared to commercially yeasted bread.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Absolutely! While bread flour gives a chewier texture due to its higher protein content, all-purpose flour can work well too. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the quantity slightly, adding a bit more if the dough feels too sticky or wet.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, this recipe is a bit challenging since it contains flour, eggs, and dairy. For egg allergies, consider experimenting with flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binding agent instead of the egg. For gluten-free options, there are specific gluten-free flour blends designed for baking that you can use, but it’s important to follow a recipe catered to gluten-free baking to ensure the best texture and results.