A decadent treat that blends the tastes of sweet caramel with salty pecans is called caramel-pecan monkey bread. Usually, before baking, bite-sized pieces of dough are mixed with a rich caramel sauce and a lot of finely chopped pecans. As the monkey bread bakes, the dough pieces become soft and pillowy while the caramel sauce and pecans create a gooey and crunchy topping. The taste combination of sweet, sticky caramel and nutty pecans makes this dish a delight with guests and perfect for special occasions or as a warming treat all year long. Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread is certain to sate your sweet tooth and leave you yearning for more whether eaten warm right out of the oven or at room temperature.
| Ingredients: | |
| 1 | 2 cans refrigerated biscuits (16 biscuits total) |
| 2 | 1 cup granulated sugar |
| 3 | 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon |
| 4 | 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted |
| 5 | 1/2 cup packed brown sugar |
| 6 | 1/2 cup chopped pecans |
Step-by-step cooking instructions of Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread:
Step-1 350 °F/175 °C should be the oven’s temperature. Butter or cooking spray should be used to grease a Bundt pan or a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Step-2 Combine the cinnamon and granulated sugar in a sizable zip-top bag. Mix thoroughly.
Step-3 Open the cans of refrigerated biscuits and separate the dough into individual biscuits.
Step-4 Cut each biscuit into quarters. Place the biscuit quarters into the bag with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Close the bag tightly and shake it to coat the biscuit pieces evenly.
Step-5 Butter should be melted in a small pan over medium heat. Brown sugar should be dissolved by cooking it for two to three minutes with frequent stirring. Get rid of the heat.
Step-6 Half of the pecans should be chopped and placed on the bottom of the buttered pan.
Step-7 Take the coated biscuit pieces out of the bag and layer them in the pan. Drizzle half of the melted butter and brown sugar mixture over the biscuits.
Step-8 Repeat the layering process with the remaining biscuit pieces, pecans, and melted butter and brown sugar mixture.
Step-9 Bake for 30-35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the top is golden brown and the biscuits are toasty all the way through.
Step-10 After removing the monkey bread from the oven, let it cool in the pan for a while. To release the monkey bread, carefully invert the pan onto a serving platter.
Step-11 Serve the Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread warm
Nutritional value of Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread:
The particular ingredients and amounts used will determine the nutritional value of the caramel-pecan monkey bread. However, here is a general breakdown of the approximate nutritional values for a serving size of 1/10th of the recipe:
| 1 | Calories: Around 350-400 calories |
| 2 | Total Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams |
| 3 | Saturated Fat: Approximately 6-8 grams |
| 4 | Trans Fat: Varies depending on the ingredients used |
| 5 | Cholesterol: Approximately 20-30 milligrams |
| 6 | Sodium: Around 400-500 milligrams |
| 7 | Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60 grams |
| 8 | Dietary Fiber: Varies depending on the ingredients used |
| 9 | Sugars: Approximately 20-30 grams |
| 10 | Protein: Around 4-6 grams |
Background History of Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread:
Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread, also known simply as Monkey Bread, is a sweet and sticky dessert that has gained popularity in the United States. The exact origins of Monkey Bread are unclear, but it is believed to have been influenced by Hungarian kürtőskalács, a traditional pastry consisting of rolled dough coated in sugar and cooked over an open fire.
Monkey Bread’s rise in popularity can be attributed to the Pillsbury Company, a well-known American food brand. In the 1950s, Pillsbury introduced their refrigerated biscuit dough, which provided a convenient and time-saving alternative to homemade dough. As home cooks sought creative ways to use the canned biscuit dough, the concept of Monkey Bread emerged.
The name “Monkey Bread” is said to have been inspired by the way the bread is eaten, with people tearing off small pieces from the loaf, resembling monkeys picking at their food. The dish quickly became a favorite for family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions due to its delicious taste and interactive nature.
Over time, variations of Monkey Bread started to emerge, including the addition of caramel and pecans. The caramel brings a rich, sweet flavor and a gooey texture to the bread, while the pecans add a nutty crunch and enhance the overall taste experience.
Today, Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread is a beloved dessert across the United States, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a special treat. It has become a staple in many households and is also a popular choice in bakeries and brunch menus. The combination of caramel, pecans, and the soft, pull-apart bread continues to delight dessert enthusiasts of all ages.
| Advantages of Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread | |
| 1 | Delicious Flavor: Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread offers a delightful combination of sweet caramel and nutty pecans that create a rich and indulgent flavor profile. |
| 2 | Comforting and Indulgent: Monkey bread is known for its comforting and indulgent nature, making it a satisfying treat for special occasions or when you crave something sweet and decadent. |
| 3 | Easy to Make: This dessert is relatively simple to prepare, especially with the use of pre-made refrigerated biscuit dough. It can be a fun and rewarding baking project for both experienced and novice bakers. |
| 4 | Versatile Presentation: Monkey bread is typically served in a bundt pan or a baking dish, creating an eye-catching centerpiece that is perfect for sharing and serving a group. |
| 5 | Interactive Eating Experience: Monkey bread is designed to be torn apart, encouraging an interactive eating experience where everyone can enjoy pulling off a piece of the soft, sticky bread. |
| Disadvantages of Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread | |
| 1 | High in Calories: Monkey bread is a rich and indulgent dessert, typically made with butter, sugar, and biscuits, which contribute to its high calorie content. As part of a balanced diet, it is crucial to consume it in moderation. |
| 2 | High in Sugar: The caramel and sugar used in Monkey Bread contribute to its sweetness. Excessive consumption of sugary foods can lead to health issues such as tooth decay and potential imbalances in blood sugar levels. |
| 3 | High in Fat: Monkey bread contains butter, which adds to its richness but also contributes to its fat content. It is advisable to consume it in moderation, especially for individuals watching their fat intake. |
| 4 | Nut Allergies: The addition of pecans in Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread can be a disadvantage for individuals with nut allergies. It is important to be mindful of any dietary restrictions or allergies when serving this dessert. |
| 5 | Limited Nutritional Value: Monkey bread is primarily a treat meant for enjoyment and indulgence, rather than a nutrient-dense food. It is not a significant source of essential vitamins or minerals and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. |
Compare with similar meal of Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread:
If you enjoy the flavors and concept of Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread, you might also enjoy the following similar desserts or dishes:
| 1 | Sticky Toffee Pudding: A delicious sponge cake baked with dates and drenched in a thick toffee sauce make up this British treat. It is similarly sweet and sticky as monkey bread. |
| 2 | Pull-Apart Cinnamon Rolls: Cinnamon rolls are made with a similar dough to Monkey Bread but are typically rolled up and sliced into individual rolls. They are then baked together, allowing them to be pulled apart just like Monkey Bread. The addition of a cream cheese frosting or caramel glaze can further enhance the indulgence. |
| 3 | Bread Pudding: Bread pudding is a comforting dessert made by combining bread with a custard mixture and baking it until it becomes soft and pudding-like. Similar to Monkey Bread, it offers a warm and satisfying treat. |
| 4 | Pecan Sticky Buns: These buns are made with a similar dough to cinnamon rolls but are topped with a sticky caramel and pecan glaze. They offer a combination of sweet caramel, crunchy pecans, and soft bread, reminiscent of Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread. |
| 5 | Caramel Apple Pull-Apart Bread: This variation incorporates diced apples and caramel sauce into the layers of the bread, creating a delightful blend of flavors. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy the combination of caramel and fruit. |
| 6 | Nutella Pull-Apart Bread: This version uses layers of bread coated with Nutella, a delicious chocolate-hazelnut spread. It offers a gooey and decadent treat, similar to the sticky texture of Monkey Bread. |
Mostly questions asked about Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread
Q: How do I store Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread?
A: After letting the monkey bread totally cool, refrigerate it at room temperature for up to two or three days in an airtight container. You can reheat individual servings in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.
Q: Can I make Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the monkey bread in advance. Following baking, let the meal cool fully before sealing the container tightly and putting it in the refrigerator. To reheat it before serving, use the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned dough?
A: Absolutely! You can use homemade biscuit dough if you prefer. Simply roll out the dough and cut it into small pieces to use in the recipe.
Q: Can I omit the pecans if I have a nut allergy?
A: Yes, if you have a nut allergy or simply prefer not to use pecans, you can omit them from the recipe. The monkey bread will still be delicious without them.
Q: Can I freeze Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread?
A: Yes, you can freeze the monkey bread. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and place it in the freezer. It should be refrozen overnight and reheated just before serving.
Q: Can I substitute another nut with the pecans?
A: Absolutely! You can swap out the pecans in the recipe with another nut of your choice, such walnuts or almonds, if you prefer. To suit your tastes, alter the dosage.
Q: Can I use a different type of pan to bake the monkey bread?
A: Yes, while a bundt pan or a 9×9-inch baking dish is commonly used, you can use a different pan as long as it has high sides and is large enough to accommodate the bread pieces and the caramel sauce.
Q: Can I make Caramel-Pecan Monkey Bread without using caramel sauce?
A: You can omit the caramel sauce for a less sugary version. The bread will still be delicious, and the butter and sugar coating will provide a delightful flavor.
Q: Can I include extras like chocolate chips or dried fruit?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize your monkey bread by adding chocolate chips, raisins, or other dried fruits. Just sprinkle them between the layers or mix them into the biscuit dough before baking.
Q: Can I substitute another sweetener for the granulated sugar?
A: Alternate sweeteners like brown sugar, coconut sugar, or a sugar substitute are all options that you can explore. Be aware that the flavor and texture could be somewhat changed.
