If you are looking for a delightful, comforting dessert or a standout brunch treat, this Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe is absolutely the way to go. Imagine soft, pillowy biscuit pieces coated in cinnamon sugar, studded with juicy blueberries, and drenched in a rich buttery glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes. This recipe combines simplicity with indulgence, creating a pull-apart bread that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weekend treat, this Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe will quickly become a household favorite that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully straightforward but each plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. From the tender biscuit dough to the fresh burst of blueberries and the golden sweetness of the buttery glaze, every component harmonizes perfectly.
- Refrigerated biscuit dough (2 cans, 16.3 oz each): Provides the soft, fluffy base that makes the bread pull-apart friendly and easy to prepare.
- Fresh or frozen blueberries (1 cup): Adds a juicy, slightly tart pop that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Used to coat the biscuit pieces, lending a classic sweet crunch combined with cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Infuses warm, aromatic spice into the bread that makes it irresistible.
- Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup): Creates that irresistible glaze, soaking into the bread and adding richness and moisture.
- Brown sugar, packed (½ cup): Melts into the butter to form a deep caramel-like glaze packed with flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the sweetness and adds a subtle floral note.
- Optional lemon glaze (¾ cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice): Adds a fresh tang that pairs beautifully with blueberries and cuts through the sweetness.
How to Make Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and generously greasing a bundt pan so your monkey bread won’t stick. Next, cut each biscuit into quarters – this size is perfect for creating those signature pull-apart chunks you’ll love. Then combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in a large zip-top bag, add the biscuit pieces, close it tight, and shake until every piece is evenly coated in that sweet, spiced mixture. This step is key to creating that wonderfully textured, crunchy exterior.
Step 2: Make the Butter Sugar Glaze
While the biscuits are coated, it’s time to create the luscious glaze that will caramelize inside the bundt pan. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until it’s all smooth and glossy, then remove from heat to maintain that perfect sticky consistency. This mixture will soak into the dough and fruit, giving you rich layers of flavor and moisture.
Step 3: Assemble the Monkey Bread
Now comes the fun layering part. Place half of the sugared biscuit pieces at the bottom of your prepared bundt pan, then sprinkle half of the blueberries evenly over this first layer. Repeat this process with the remaining biscuit pieces and blueberries, building a beautiful stack of dough and fruity bursts. Pour the warm butter-sugar glaze over everything, ensuring it drizzles down and contacts all the biscuit pieces for maximum flavor melding.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake your Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. The smell will start to take over your home — sweet, buttery, and cinnamon-tinged goodness that’s utterly mouthwatering. You’ll know it’s done when the bread is golden brown and fully cooked through, with the glaze bubbling slightly around the edges.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
After baking, give the bread about 10 minutes to cool in the pan. This resting time helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to invert onto your serving plate. Carefully flip the pan over to release the monkey bread, and if you decided on the optional lemon glaze, drizzle it generously over the top. Serve warm so each pull-apart piece reveals the sweet, juicy inner crumbs you’ll fall head over heels for.
How to Serve Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes elevates the Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe visually and flavor-wise. Fresh blueberries scattered around the serving platter add vibrant color and refresh the palate. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a final lemon glaze drizzle can provide a zingy brightness that perfectly complements the buttery richness.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs exquisitely with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of milk, which balances out the sweetness. For brunch, complement it with creamy yogurt topped with granola or a simple green salad for contrast. If serving dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is an indulgent touch that guests will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your friends or family? Try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini bundt pans for a whimsical touch. You can also add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts between the layers before baking for an extra crunchy surprise. Wrapping sections with parchment paper or colorful ribbons makes this treat a delightful gift or party favor too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which we hope you do, because it’s that good), store the Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping it sealed prevents the bread from drying out and protects its soft texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover monkey bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, then placing it in a freezer bag or container. It will keep well for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring the bread back to fresh-baked warmth, reheat in a low oven at 300°F for about 10 to 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 20 to 30 seconds. This helps restore the gooey texture and makes it taste like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for this Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Just remember not to thaw them before adding, so they don’t release extra liquid and make the dough soggy. Using frozen blueberries gives you that fresh burst and keeps the bread moist.
Is there a way to make this Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe nut-free?
Yes, simply skip any optional nuts or toppings that include nuts. The recipe is naturally nut-free unless you add extras, so it’s safe for those with allergies.
Can I substitute biscuit dough with homemade dough?
Definitely! Homemade biscuit dough can add a personal touch, but using refrigerated dough is a time-saver and yields excellent results with minimal effort.
What can I use instead of a bundt pan?
You can use a tube pan or even a deep round cake pan with a springform for baking. Just be sure it’s well greased so the bread releases easily.
Does the Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe work with other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with raspberries, chopped apples, or blackberries for different flavors. Just adjust sweetness as needed to balance tartness.
Final Thoughts
This Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe is such a heartwarming treat that effortlessly blends ease and elegance. Whether you’re sharing breakfast with loved ones or indulging in a cozy dessert, the sweet bursts of blueberry and cinnamon will make every bite memorable. Give it a try and watch it become your new go-to recipe whenever you want to dazzle with a simple, delicious homemade treat.
Print
Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in this Blueberry Monkey Bread, a sweet, pull-apart treat perfect for brunch or dessert. Made with soft biscuit dough coated in cinnamon sugar, layered with juicy blueberries, and baked with a buttery brown sugar glaze for a golden, flavorful finish. Optionally topped with a tangy lemon glaze, this easy-to-make bread combines comforting flavors and a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
Monkey Bread
- 2 cans refrigerated biscuit dough (16.3 oz each)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Lemon Glaze (optional)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a bundt pan using butter or nonstick spray to ensure the monkey bread does not stick.
- Prepare Biscuit Pieces: Cut each biscuit into quarters for bite-sized pieces. In a large zip-top bag, mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. Add the biscuit pieces to the bag and shake well until every piece is evenly coated with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Make Butter Brown Sugar Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth. Remove it from heat once well blended.
- Layer Monkey Bread: Arrange half of the sugared biscuit pieces evenly in the prepared bundt pan. Sprinkle half of the blueberries over this layer. Repeat the process with the remaining biscuit pieces and blueberries, creating two layers in total.
- Add Butter Mixture: Pour the warm butter brown sugar mixture evenly over the layered biscuit and blueberries in the bundt pan to coat thoroughly for that rich flavor and caramelized texture.
- Bake: Place the bundt pan in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the monkey bread turns golden brown and is cooked through.
- Cool and Unmold: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert the bundt pan over a serving plate to release the monkey bread without breaking it.
- Optional Lemon Glaze: If desired, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to make a lemon glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm monkey bread just before serving for added zest and sweetness.
Notes
- You can use frozen blueberries but do not thaw them before adding to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.
- For additional texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts.
- This monkey bread tastes best fresh but can be reheated in the oven or microwave for convenience.
