Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread Recipe

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's no better way to celebrate the flavors of fall than with a deliciously sweet and spiced Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread. This treat is perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or simply indulging in the comfort of warm autumn flavors. If you love the taste of pumpkin and maple syrup, you're in for a treat with this recipe. Keep reading to learn how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece, step by step.

What is Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread?

Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread is a pull-apart bread made from bite-sized pieces of dough that are coated in a spiced pumpkin mixture, baked to golden perfection, and then drenched in a rich maple glaze. It's a delightful combination of soft, gooey bread and warm autumn spices, with a hint of sweetness from the maple syrup. This recipe takes the classic monkey bread and gives it a seasonal twist, making it an irresistible dessert or breakfast option.

Ingredients List for Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to gather all the ingredients you'll need for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll require:

For the Dough:

• 2 cans (16.3 ounces each) refrigerated biscuit dough: This makes the preparation quick and easy, giving you soft, fluffy bread.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: To add sweetness and help create that perfect caramelized crust.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Essential for that warm, spiced flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a deeper, richer spice note.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger: A subtle kick to balance the sweetness.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Intensifies the autumn spice profile.

For the Pumpkin Mixture:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Provides that rich, pumpkin flavor.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds moisture and richness to the bread.
• ¼ cup brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and gives the bread a caramel-like depth.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Balances the spices and adds a warm, aromatic note.

For the Maple Glaze:

• ½ cup pure maple syrup: The star of the glaze, adding a deep, earthy sweetness.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: To thicken the glaze and provide a smooth texture.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds a glossy finish and rich flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread recipe is its versatility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Dough Alternatives: Instead of refrigerated biscuit dough, you can use homemade dough or even frozen bread dough. Just make sure to thaw it fully before use.
• Pumpkin Substitutes: If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can use sweet potato puree or even butternut squash puree for a similar flavor profile.
• Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add more cinnamon for a spicier kick, or include cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
• Nutty Addition: Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture and extra flavor. Simply sprinkle them in between the dough pieces before baking.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: For a richer glaze, mix cream cheese into the maple glaze for a tangy-sweet topping.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan generously with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your monkey bread doesn’t stick.
2. Prepare the Spiced Sugar Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed.
3. Cut the Dough: Open the cans of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. You should have around 64 pieces in total. Roll each piece in the spiced sugar mixture until well-coated.
4. Layer the Dough in the Pan: Place half of the coated dough pieces into the greased bundt pan. Make sure they are evenly distributed to create a uniform loaf.
5. Make the Pumpkin Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
6. Add the Pumpkin Mixture: Pour half of the pumpkin mixture over the dough pieces in the bundt pan. Use a spoon to gently spread it so that it covers all the dough pieces.
7. Repeat the Layering: Add the remaining dough pieces on top of the pumpkin layer. Pour the remaining pumpkin mixture over the top.
8. Bake the Monkey Bread: Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the Bread: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the monkey bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert the bread onto a serving platter.
10. Prepare the Maple Glaze: While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the maple syrup, powdered sugar, melted butter, and salt in a small bowl. Drizzle the glaze over the warm monkey bread.

How to Cook Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread is a straightforward process, but there are a few key steps to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time.

1. Evenly Coat the Dough: When rolling the dough pieces in the spiced sugar mixture, make sure they are evenly coated. This will ensure each piece has a sweet and spiced crust.
2. Layering is Key: Properly layering the dough pieces in the bundt pan is crucial. Avoid packing them too tightly, as this can cause uneven cooking.
3. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check the bread’s doneness. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready. If not, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
4. Cool Before Inverting: Allow the bread to cool slightly before inverting it onto a plate. This helps the bread hold its shape and prevents it from sticking to the pan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overbaking: Be careful not to overbake the bread, as it can dry out. Check it early and often to ensure it stays soft and gooey.
• Skipping the Grease: Make sure to thoroughly grease the bundt pan. Skipping this step can result in the bread sticking to the pan, making it difficult to remove.
• Uneven Coating: Not evenly coating the dough pieces in the spiced sugar mixture can lead to an inconsistent flavor throughout the bread.
• Rushing the Cooling Process: Don’t rush the cooling process before inverting the bread. This can cause the bread to fall apart or stick to the pan.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread is best served warm, allowing the glaze to melt into the nooks and crannies of the bread. Here are some serving and presentation tips to make your dish even more appealing:

• Warm Serving: If the bread cools down too much, you can gently reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore its warmth and gooey texture.
• Family Style: Serve the monkey bread directly on a platter, and let everyone pull apart their pieces. It’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy the treat.
• Individual Portions: For a more formal presentation, divide the monkey bread into individual portions and serve them on small dessert plates.
• Add a Topping: Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of each serving for an extra touch of indulgence.

How to Serve Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread

Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It can be enjoyed as a decadent breakfast treat, a delightful dessert, or even a sweet snack. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or even a warm apple cider to complement the fall flavors.

Presentation Ideas for Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread

For special occasions, you might want to elevate the presentation of your Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread. Here are a few ideas:

• Garnish with Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the top for a crunchy garnish that adds visual appeal.
• Cinnamon Sticks: Place a few cinnamon sticks around the bread for a decorative touch that highlights the spice flavors in the dish.
• Autumn-Themed Serving Platter: Use a fall-themed platter or cake stand to serve the bread, enhancing the seasonal feel of the dish.

Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread Recipe Tips

To ensure your Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices make a big difference in the flavor of your monkey bread. If your spices have been sitting in the pantry for a while, consider replacing them.
• Don’t Overmix the Pumpkin Mixture: When combining the pumpkin mixture, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense texture.
• Glaze Immediately: For the best results, drizzle the maple glaze over the monkey bread while it’s still warm. This allows the glaze to seep into the bread, making it even more delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the monkey bread ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.

Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply place the bread in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Q: Can I freeze Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread? A: Yes, you can freeze the baked monkey bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Q: Can I use homemade dough? A: Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use homemade dough instead of refrigerated biscuit dough. Just make sure to let it rise properly before assembling the monkey bread.

Q: What other glazes can I use? A: If you’re not a fan of maple, you can try a cream cheese glaze, caramel sauce, or even a simple vanilla glaze.

Conclusion

Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread is the ultimate fall treat, combining the comforting flavors of pumpkin, warm spices, and sweet maple syrup in a pull-apart bread that's perfect for sharing. Whether you're serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a cozy weekend breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a slice of autumn heaven. Happy baking!

Print