If you are looking for a sweet, gooey, and irresistibly sticky treat, this Butterscotch Monkey Bread Recipe is exactly what you need to bring your dessert game to a whole new level. Imagine pillowy soft frozen rolls soaked in a luscious butterscotch and brown sugar glaze, sprinkled with crunchy pecans and warmed to golden perfection. This delightful dish is perfect for sharing at brunch, holiday gatherings, or any time you want to impress friends and family with something both decadent and comforting. Trust me, once you try this Butterscotch Monkey Bread Recipe, it might just become your go-to sweet pull-apart bread sensation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Butterscotch Monkey Bread Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays an essential role in creating that perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color that makes this bread so unforgettable.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: This brings richness and helps dissolve the brown sugar to create the luscious glaze.
- 3.5 ounces Cook ‘n Serve Butterscotch Pudding Mix: Adds a deep, creamy butterscotch flavor and thick texture to the sauce.
- ½ cup dark brown sugar: Offers a molasses-packed sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy spice (or Penzey’s pie spice for complexity).
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances out sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 cup chopped pecans (divided): Introduce a delightful crunch to every bite, perfectly contrasting the soft bread.
- 24 unbaked frozen dinner rolls: The foundation of this dish, these rolls bake up soft and fluffy, ideal for soaking up the butterscotch glaze.
How to Make Butterscotch Monkey Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by generously spraying a 10-inch Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray. This is how you ensure your sticky, sweet masterpiece will come out of the pan easily, maintaining its beautiful shape and layers.
Step 2: Make the Butterscotch Mixture
Microwave the butter, butterscotch pudding mix, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt on 50% power until the butter has completely melted. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. This glaze packs all the flavor that makes this bread so crave-worthy.
Step 3: Add the First Layer of Pecans
Sprinkle half a cup of chopped pecans into the bottom of the prepared Bundt pan. These nuts will form a crunchy base that beautifully contrasts with the soft rolls layered on top.
Step 4: First Layer of Rolls
Place half of your frozen dinner rolls evenly over the pecans, making sure to leave a little space—about a quarter inch—between each roll. This allows for even baking and ensures each piece soaks up just the right amount of glaze.
Step 5: Add More Pecans and Glaze
Sprinkle the remaining half cup of pecans over the first layer of rolls, then drizzle half of the butter and butterscotch pudding mixture evenly on top. This layering step ensures that every bite bursts with buttery sweetness and nutty crunch.
Step 6: Add the Second Layer of Rolls
Place the remaining frozen dinner rolls on top of the mixture, carefully fitting them in by cutting if necessary so they fill the pan evenly.
Step 7: Top with Remaining Glaze
Evenly pour the remaining butter and butterscotch pudding mixture over the top layer of rolls. This completes the flavor layering and ensures the entire bread will be decadently sticky when baked.
Step 8: Cover and Let Rise
Spray one side of a sheet of plastic wrap with nonstick spray and place it loosely, sprayed side down, over the rolls. Leave the pan on your countertop for 5–6 hours or refrigerate for 8–10 hours to allow the dough to thaw and rise, soaking in all the fabulous flavors.
Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection
When ready, preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the bread for 25–27 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of between 200°F and 205°F. This ensures the rolls are fully cooked while the glaze caramelizes beautifully.
Step 10: Cool and Invert
Transfer the Bundt pan to a cooling rack and let it cool for 5 minutes. Then, carefully place a large plate over the pan and invert the monkey bread onto the plate. Be very cautious here — the pan and the sticky drippings will be hot, so take your time to avoid any burns.
Step 11: Serve Warm
This Butterscotch Monkey Bread Recipe is best served immediately while it’s still warm and gooey. Get ready for some oohs and ahhs with the first pull-apart bite!
How to Serve Butterscotch Monkey Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Lift this dish to another level by topping it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting for an extra creamy touch. Freshly chopped pecans sprinkled on top add a lovely visual and nutty crunch.
Side Dishes
Since this monkey bread is quite rich and sweet, pair it with something fresh and light. Fresh fruit such as berries, slices of crisp apples, or a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the sweetness wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Butterscotch Monkey Bread Recipe in a festive Bundt pan right on the table for a rustic but charming look. You can also separate the bread into individual portions before baking in mini Bundt pans for personalized servings perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The bread will stay soft and flavorful but is definitely best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze baked monkey bread by wrapping it tightly in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to bring back its sticky goodness.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent the top from burning, or warm up individual pieces in the microwave for a few seconds for a quick treat.
FAQs
Can I use homemade rolls instead of frozen dinner rolls?
Absolutely! While frozen dinner rolls are convenient and guarantee consistent results, homemade rolls can add a personal touch and fresh flavor if you have time to prepare them.
Is it necessary to use butterscotch pudding mix?
The butterscotch pudding mix lends this recipe its signature rich and creamy flavor. If you can’t find it, you might try a similar butterscotch-flavored mix, but the texture and flavor might vary slightly.
Can I omit the pecans?
Yes, pecans are optional. They add a nice crunch and nutty flavor, but if you have a nut allergy or just prefer without, the bread is delicious on its own.
What can I substitute for kosher salt?
If you don’t have kosher salt, use regular table salt but reduce the amount slightly since it’s finer and saltier by volume.
How do I know when the monkey bread is fully baked?
The best way is to check for an internal temperature between 200°F and 205°F using a kitchen thermometer or to ensure the tops are golden brown and the bread is puffed up evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Butterscotch Monkey Bread Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that combines easy-to-find ingredients with an effortlessly impressive result. It’s perfect for any occasion where you want to share something sweet, sticky, and utterly addictive. I promise that once you pull apart that first piece, you’ll be hooked. So go ahead, make this recipe your own, and watch your family’s smiles grow with every gooey bite!
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Butterscotch Monkey Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 40 minutes (including proofing time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the rich, gooey goodness of Butterscotch Monkey Bread, a delightful pull-apart treat made with frozen dinner rolls, a luscious butterscotch pudding glaze, pecans, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a decadent dessert, this recipe combines sweet, buttery flavors with a soft, tender texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
Butterscotch Glaze
- ½ cup unsalted butter (113 grams, 1 stick)
- 3.5 ounces Cook ‘n Serve Butterscotch Pudding Mix (99 grams, 1 box)
- ½ cup dark brown sugar (107 grams)
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon (or Penzey’s pie spice)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Base and Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans (113 grams, divided, optional)
- 24 unbaked frozen dinner rolls (912 grams, Rhodes recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare Bundt Pan: Generously spray a 10-inch Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy release of the monkey bread after baking.
- Make Butterscotch Glaze: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, butterscotch pudding mix, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Microwave on 50% power until the butter has melted. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Add First Layer of Pecans: Sprinkle half a cup of chopped pecans evenly into the bottom of the prepared Bundt pan, adding a crunchy texture layer.
- Place First Layer of Rolls: Arrange half of the frozen dinner rolls over the pecans in the pan, spacing them out slightly (about ¼-inch apart) to allow room for the rolls to expand while baking.
- Add More Pecans and Glaze: Sprinkle the remaining half cup of pecans evenly over the frozen rolls. Then drizzle half of the prepared butterscotch glaze evenly over the pecans and rolls.
- Top with Second Layer of Rolls: Add the remaining frozen dinner rolls on top of the glaze layer, trimming or cutting rolls as needed to fit the pan evenly.
- Top with Remaining Glaze: Pour the remaining butterscotch glaze evenly over the top layer of rolls to ensure maximum flavor throughout.
- Cover and Proof: Spray one side of plastic wrap with nonstick spray and place it sprayed-side down, loosely covering the rolls. Let the dough rise for 5-6 hours at room temperature or 8-10 hours in the refrigerator, allowing the rolls to thaw and proof for a fluffy texture.
- Preheat Oven and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the monkey bread for 25-27 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 200°F-205°F, and the top is golden brown and caramelized.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the pan from the oven and transfer it to a cooling rack. Allow the monkey bread to cool for about 5 minutes, letting the glaze set slightly but keeping it warm enough to pull apart easily.
- Invert Onto Plate: Place a large serving plate larger than the pan over the top of the Bundt pan. Carefully and slowly invert the pan to release the monkey bread onto the plate. Exercise caution as the pan and dripping glaze will be very hot.
- Serve: Serve the butterscotch monkey bread immediately while warm for the best gooey, tender texture and rich flavor.
Notes
- Use frozen dinner rolls like Rhodes brand for best texture and ease of preparation.
- If pecans are not preferred or available, you may omit them or substitute with walnuts or another nut of choice.
- The butterscotch pudding mix adds a unique gooey sweetness that sets this monkey bread apart; do not substitute with other pudding flavors.
- Proofing time is essential for thawing and rising, do not rush this step for proper texture.
- Be cautious when inverting the hot Bundt pan to avoid burns and spills from hot glaze.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently in the microwave or oven and still taste delicious.
