Fall is here, and that means it’s time to indulge in the warm, spicy flavors of the season. Imagine pulling a golden-brown Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread from your oven—tender, sweet, and swirled with cozy spices. This delightful treat is perfect for sharing or simply enjoying yourself with a cup of cider. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step to create this irresistible fall dish that will brighten your table and warm your heart.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cans of refrigerated biscuit dough
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for drizzle)
– 2 tablespoons milk (for drizzle)
Important Ingredient Notes
What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
You can use butternut squash puree or sweet potato puree as substitutes. Both provide a similar flavor and texture, making them great options for this recipe.
How do I choose the right biscuit dough?
Look for refrigerated biscuit dough that is flaky and light. Avoid dough that looks too dense or has a short shelf life. Brands often vary, so it’s good to read labels.
Why do spices matter in this recipe?
Spices like pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon add warmth and depth. They enhance the pumpkin flavor, making each bite more enjoyable. The right spices can turn a simple dish into a comforting treat.
Use the Full Recipe to see how these ingredients blend into a delightful fall dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for even baking.
2. Get your bundt pan ready. Grease it well with non-stick spray or softened butter. This helps the bread come out easily.
3. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Stir until the mix is smooth. This blend brings the fall flavor you crave.
Assembling the Monkey Bread
1. Open the cans of biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into quarters with a sharp knife or kitchen scissors. This lets them soak up the flavor well.
2. Take each piece and dip it into the pumpkin mixture. Make sure each piece is coated fully. This step is where the magic happens.
3. Start layering the coated biscuit pieces randomly in the bundt pan. If you want extra crunch, sprinkle in some chopped pecans between layers.
4. After all the pieces are in, pour any leftover pumpkin mixture over the top. This ensures every piece has that yummy flavor.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the dough. Let it soak into the layers for added richness.
Baking and Serving
1. Place the bundt pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes. The top should be golden brown when it’s done. Use a toothpick to check; it should come out clean.
2. Once baked, take the pan out of the oven. Let it cool for about 10 minutes. This helps the monkey bread set.
3. When cool, carefully invert the bundt pan onto a serving plate. If it sticks, give it a gentle tap to help it release.
4. In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar and milk to create a smooth drizzle. Adjust the thickness by adding more milk or sugar.
5. Drizzle this sweet mix over the warm monkey bread just before serving. This adds a lovely touch.
Enjoy this Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread while it’s warm for the best taste!
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overmixing the pumpkin mixture. Mix just until smooth. Too much can make it tough.
– Not properly greasing the bundt pan. Use non-stick spray or butter generously. This helps the bread come out easily.
How to Ensure Perfect Texture
– Oven temperature check. Always preheat your oven to 350°F. A hot oven helps the bread rise well.
– Cooling tips before serving. Let the monkey bread sit for ten minutes after baking. This makes it easier to remove.
Serving Suggestions
– Ideal accompaniments for monkey bread. Serve warm monkey bread with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich treat.
– Best drinks to pair with pumpkin spice treats. Enjoy your monkey bread with hot apple cider or a spiced chai latte. These drinks enhance the fall flavors.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can have fun with this recipe by changing some ingredients. Instead of pumpkin pie spice, try using cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for different tastes. You can also swap out the sugars. Use maple syrup or honey for a natural sweet taste. For a fun treat, you can add chocolate chips to the dough. Just mix in a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips after coating the biscuit pieces. This adds a rich flavor to your monkey bread.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free biscuit dough at your store. Many brands offer great alternatives that work well. For vegan adaptations, replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. You can also use almond or soy milk instead of dairy milk for the drizzle. These swaps keep the flavor while fitting different diets.
Seasonal Additions
To make your monkey bread even more festive, think about adding cranberries or raisins. Mix in about 1/2 cup of dried fruit between the layers of dough. This adds a chewy texture and a burst of flavor. Another great idea is to drizzle flavored syrup on top. Caramel or maple syrup adds sweetness and a nice shine. These simple changes can make your pumpkin spice monkey bread even more special. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your pumpkin spice monkey bread fresh for a few days, follow these tips:
– Allow the monkey bread to cool completely.
– Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
– Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
– For longer freshness, place it in an airtight container.
These steps help keep the bread soft and tasty.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great option. Here’s how:
– Let the monkey bread cool entirely.
– Wrap it in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
– Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it:
– Thaw it in the fridge overnight.
– Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
This keeps the flavors intact and makes it warm and inviting.
Signs of Spoilage
It’s important to check for signs of spoilage. Look for:
– An off smell or strange color.
– Mold or a slimy texture.
– Dryness or hard pieces.
If you notice any of these, it’s best to toss it out. Freshness is key to enjoying your pumpkin spice monkey bread!
FAQs
How do I make monkey bread from scratch?
To make monkey bread from scratch, you start with homemade dough. Mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a bowl. Add warm milk and melted butter, then knead the dough until smooth. Let it rise until it doubles in size. Once ready, cut the dough into pieces, coat them in your favorite flavors, and layer them in a bundt pan. Bake until golden brown. For the full recipe, check out Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread.
Can I make pumpkin spice monkey bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare pumpkin spice monkey bread ahead of time. Store the unbaked bread in the fridge overnight. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. If you bake it first, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it in foil and store it in the fridge for a few days.
What can I do with leftover monkey bread?
Leftover monkey bread can be a fun treat. Here are some ideas:
– Reheat: Warm it in the oven for a quick snack.
– French Toast: Dip pieces in egg mixture and fry for a sweet twist.
– Pudding: Turn it into a bread pudding with eggs and milk.
– Toppings: Add ice cream or yogurt for a delicious dessert.
Feel free to get creative with what you have!
You can create a delicious pumpkin spice monkey bread with simple ingredients. This recipe covers everything, from choosing the right biscuit dough to the best ways to store leftovers. Remember to avoid common mistakes like overmixing. With this guide, you can impress friends and family with a tasty fall treat. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and variations, and don’t shy away from making it your own. Happy baking!
