Apple pies and monkey bread both have a special place in my heart, and I love how combining these two can create a delightful treat that brings everyone together in the kitchen. I remember the first time I whipped up this Apple Pie Monkey Bread; it was a chilly autumn weekend when the golden leaves were just beginning to carpet our backyard. My kids, drawn by the sweet aroma wafting through the house, wandered into the kitchen, eyes bright with anticipation. The simple joy of baking something cozy and delicious that everyone can dig into with their fingers is just unbeatable.
Each step of making this treat is like piecing together a heartwarming puzzle. As I chop the apples and toss them with sugar, I can’t help but recall the times when my grandma would fill her kitchen with the scent of freshly baked apple pies. This recipe, however, brings a modern twist to those cherished memories. The cinnamon rolls add an unexpected, yet delightful texture that my family absolutely adores. It gives each bite a soft, gooey center that pairs perfectly with the tender apples—just like a warm hug on a cold day.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to make something impressive and crowd-pleasing. It’s a treat that feels familiar and comforting, yet excitingly new. As the bundt pan comes out of the oven, and I flip it over onto a plate, revealing the caramelized layers, there’s always a moment of pure satisfaction. The kids’ eyes light up as the icing drizzles down, and everyone eagerly gathers around the table.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make but looks like it took hours of effort, this is it. Whether you serve it up for a special breakfast, festive brunch, or just because, this Apple Pie Monkey Bread is bound to become a favorite in your home too. Give it a try, and you might find yourself, just like me, baking it whenever the leaves start to turn.
How to Make Apple Pie Monkey Bread
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Ingredients:
- 3 cans Cinnamon Rolls (8 count each)
- 1 can Apple Pie Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup Light Brown Sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (for mixing)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and coat a bundt pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour the apple pie filling into a bowl and chop the apples into smaller pieces. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl or ziplock bag, mix the granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
- Open the cinnamon rolls, reserving the icing, and cut each roll into four pieces.
- Toss the cinnamon roll pieces in the sugar mixture, discarding any extra sugar.
- Lay about one-third of these pieces into the bundt pan.
- Add half of the chopped apples over the cinnamon rolls.
- Layer another third of the cinnamon roll pieces over the apples.
- Top with the remaining apples, followed by the last of the cinnamon roll pieces.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan, stir in the light brown sugar and remaining teaspoon of cinnamon, and heat until bubbling.
- Pour this hot mixture evenly over the layers in the bundt pan.
- Tap the bundt pan on the counter to help the sugar mixture settle.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55 minutes.
- Let the bundt pan cool for 15 minutes before inverting onto a cake plate.
- Drizzle the reserved icing over the top before serving.
Creative Substitutions to Suit Your Taste
If you don’t have apple pie filling, feel free to use fresh apples cooked down with a bit of sugar and cinnamon until soft. Can’t find cinnamon rolls? Use biscuit dough with added cinnamon and sugar instead. For a different flavor profile, try pear or peach pie filling as a twist.
Preserving Apple Pie Monkey Bread for Later Enjoyment
To keep your Apple Pie Monkey Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, or freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a ziplock bag for up to a month.
Perfect Pairings for Apple Pie Monkey Bread
Serve this delightful bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert or alongside a steaming mug of coffee for a cozy morning treat. A dollop of whipped cream can add extra flair and decadence to each serving.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie Monkey Bread
Ensure even layers by taking your time to spread out ingredients in the bundt pan. If possible, use a non-stick bundt pan to help with easy removal. For extra caramelization, allow the sugar mixture to bubble slightly longer before pouring it over the bread.
Adding a Seasonal Spin to Your Monkey Bread
In the fall, incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. During the summer, swap the apple pie filling for fresh berries. For a winter twist, consider adding cranberries or dried fruit for added depth and flavor.
FAQs:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in the bundt pan the night before and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the bundt pan?
Coating the bundt pan thoroughly with cooking spray or butter is key to preventing sticking. It’s also helpful to let the bread cool for about 15 minutes before trying to invert it. If you find it’s still sticking, gently run a knife around the edges to loosen it.
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls can add a personal touch and enhance the flavor. Just prepare them according to your favorite recipe, cut them into pieces, and proceed with the instructions as given. You might need to adjust baking time, so keep an eye on it.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For the best texture, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave will do, but be cautious as it can make the bread a bit chewy.
Is there a way to reduce the sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar used in the layering and the caramel mixture. You can also skip the icing drizzle at the end or use a sugar-free pie filling. Adjusting these elements will help tailor the sweetness to your liking.
What should I do if the bread looks too brown?
If it’s browning too quickly on the top, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking. This will prevent the top from burning while ensuring the inside bakes thoroughly and stays moist.
Apple Pie Monkey Bread
Equipment
- Bundt pan
- medium bowl
- Small saucepan
- Ziplock bag
Ingredients
- 3 cans Cinnamon Rolls (8 count each)
- 1 can Apple Pie Filling
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
- 1 cup Light Brown Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Cinnamon (for mixing)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a bundt pan by spraying it lightly with cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, chop the apple pie filling into smaller pieces and set aside.
- In a separate bowl or ziplock bag, combine the granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
- Open the cinnamon rolls, setting aside the icing for later, and cut each roll into four segments.
- Coat the cut cinnamon roll pieces in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, discarding any excess.
- Layer one-third of the cinnamon roll pieces in the prepared bundt pan.
- Add half of the chopped apples over the cinnamon rolls.
- Top with another one-third of the cinnamon roll pieces.
- Layer the rest of the apples on top.
- Finish by adding the last third of the cinnamon roll pieces.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan, then mix in the light brown sugar and remaining teaspoon of cinnamon. Heat until bubbling.
- Drizzle the hot buttery mixture evenly over the layers in the bundt pan. Gently tap the pan to help settle it.
- Bake for 55 minutes in the preheated oven until it is golden brown.
- Allow the bundt pan to cool for about 15 minutes once finished baking.
- Carefully invert the bundt onto a cake plate.
- Finally, drizzle the reserved icing over the top and savor the deliciousness!
