Apple Fritter Monkey Bread

Apple Fritter Monkey Bread is a delightful treat that combines soft, pull-apart bread with sweet apples and a rich cinnamon glaze. Perfect for brunches or gatherings, this recipe offers a unique twist on traditional monkey bread, making it a memorable centerpiece for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone reaching for another piece!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious dessert ready in no time.
• Shareable Delight: Its pull-apart nature makes it perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of apples and cinnamon creates a comforting flavor that appeals to all ages.
• Beautiful Presentation: The bundt shape and drizzled glaze make for an impressive dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
• Make Ahead Option: Prep it ahead of time and bake just before serving for a warm, fresh treat.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Apple Fritter Monkey Bread, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Nonstick spray
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: This special shape not only helps with even baking but also creates an attractive presentation.
• Mixing bowls: Having different sizes allows you to mix ingredients without spilling or creating a mess.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when making the glaze.

Ingredients

Soft pull-apart bread with sweet apples and a cinnamon glaze for a delectable sharing treat.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Mix

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Apple Filling

• 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced

For the Biscuit Mixture

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cans refrigerated biscuits (8-count each)

For the Glaze

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk, room temperature

How to Make Apple Fritter Monkey Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 10-inch bundt pan generously with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mix

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Add in the diced apples and toss until they are well coated with the mixture.

Step 3: Coat the Biscuit Pieces

In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of brown sugar with melted butter. Cut each biscuit into 6 pieces. Add these pieces into the butter mixture, gently tossing until all biscuits are fully coated.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Layer one-third of the apple mixture in the prepared bundt pan. Top this with half of the coated biscuit pieces. Next, add another third of the apple mixture followed by the remaining biscuit pieces. Finish by layering on the final third of apples.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until golden brown and set. Remove from oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar with milk. Gradually add milk until you achieve a pourable glaze consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Carefully invert the cooled bread onto a serving plate. Generously drizzle with glaze before serving to enhance its sweetness. Enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Fritter Monkey Bread

Apple Fritter Monkey Bread is a delightful treat perfect for gatherings or family brunches. Its soft, sweet pull-apart pieces make it an ideal sharing dish that everyone will love.

For Breakfast

• Serve warm alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting start to the day.

With Ice Cream

• Add a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side for a delicious dessert twist.

At Brunch Parties

• Present it on a large platter with fresh fruit, making it a colorful centerpiece for your brunch table.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• For those who love sweetness, offer additional glaze on the side for drizzling over each piece before enjoying.

Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream can balance the richness of the bread for a decadent treat.

How to Perfect Apple Fritter Monkey Bread

Creating the perfect Apple Fritter Monkey Bread takes just a few simple tips to ensure an irresistible result.

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose crisp Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances well with the sweetness of the bread.
• Avoid Overmixing: When combining biscuit pieces with butter, be gentle to keep them fluffy and prevent them from becoming dense.
• Check Doneness: Ensure you bake until golden brown but not too dry. A skewer should come out clean when inserted in the center.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the bread to cool slightly before adding glaze; this helps it stick better and adds flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding nutmeg or allspice to enhance the flavor profile of your monkey bread.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Fritter Monkey Bread

Apple Fritter Monkey Bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the monkey bread.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious counterpoint to the rich monkey bread.
3. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein, making it ideal for brunch alongside your sweet treat.
4. Sausage Links
   Savory chicken or turkey sausage links add heartiness, creating a balanced meal experience.
5. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
   Crispy chips dusted with cinnamon sugar offer an additional crunchy texture that complements the soft bread perfectly.
6. Maple Syrup Drizzle
   Serve warm maple syrup on the side for an extra hint of sweetness that guests can pour over their monkey bread slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Fritter Monkey Bread is a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong type of apples – Choose Granny Smith apples for their tartness and firmness; other varieties may become mushy in baking.
• Overmixing the biscuits – Gently toss the biscuit pieces in the butter; overmixing can lead to tough bread instead of soft pull-apart pieces.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allowing the bread to cool for at least 10 minutes prevents it from falling apart when inverted. Patience pays off!
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision. Accurate measurements ensure consistent sweetness and texture.
• Forgetting the glaze – The glaze adds a sweet finishing touch. Don’t skip it! Adjust milk until you achieve a smooth pourable consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Apple Fritter Monkey Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Fritter Monkey Bread

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes covered with foil.
• Microwave – Heat individual pieces on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Apple Fritter Monkey Bread.

Can I use other fruits in Apple Fritter Monkey Bread?

Yes, you can experiment with pears or peaches. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape when baked.

How do I know when my Apple Fritter Monkey Bread is done?

The bread should be golden brown and set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean without wet batter.

What can I serve with Apple Fritter Monkey Bread?

This dish pairs well with coffee or tea, making it perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts.

Can I customize the glaze?

Absolutely! You can add vanilla extract or spices like nutmeg to enhance the flavor of your glaze.

Final Thoughts

Apple Fritter Monkey Bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or different fruits according to your taste preferences. This sweet treat is perfect for sharing during brunch or any special occasion, so give it a try!