Sourdough Monkey Bread

If you’re looking for a dessert that is as fun to make as it is to eat, then Sourdough Monkey Bread is just what you need! This sweet, gooey treat is perfect for family gatherings, cozy brunches, or even a delightful weeknight indulgence. The best part? It’s so easy to pull apart and share, making it a hit with everyone. Plus, the rich flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar will fill your home with an irresistible aroma.

What makes this recipe truly special is the use of sourdough starter, which adds depth and a hint of tanginess to each fluffy bite. If you’re new to sourdough baking, don’t worry! You can check out my post on How to Make a Sourdough Starter for all the details. Just remember to plan ahead since sourdough needs some time to rise.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, anyone can whip this up!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love pulling apart the gooey pieces—it’s like a fun little adventure at the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a warm, comforting treat that feels like a hug in dessert form.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this bread straight from the oven for a show-stopping centerpiece!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be surprised at how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Most of them you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need for our Sourdough Monkey Bread:

For the Dough

• 200 g filtered water
• 85 g sourdough starter, active and bubbly
• 70 g cane sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 8 g sea salt
• 430 g bread flour
• 8 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)

For the Coating

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Icing

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbs whole milk

Variations

One of the best things about Sourdough Monkey Bread is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Some Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Mix in Dried Fruit: Add raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom alongside cinnamon for unique flavor profiles.
• Go Chocolatey: Sprinkle in some chocolate chips before baking for a decadent touch.

How to Make Sourdough Monkey Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing together the filtered water and active sourdough starter in a large bowl. This step wakes up your starter and gets it ready to work its magic! Next, add cane sugar, egg, sea salt, and bread flour. Mix until everything is combined into a sticky dough. This dough will become light and fluffy during its rise!

Step 2: Knead and Rise

Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place it back into an oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—this usually takes about 4-6 hours depending on your environment.

Step 3: Shape the Bread

Once your dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Now comes the fun part! Divide the dough into small pieces (about golf-ball size). Roll each piece into balls and dip them into melted butter before coating them in the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Monkey Bread

In a bundt pan (or any oven-safe dish), layer those buttery balls into stacks. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly arranged; they’ll come together beautifully while baking! Once all your dough balls are snugly fit into the pan, cover it again and let it rise for another hour.

Step 5: Bake!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your monkey bread for about 35 minutes until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell incredible! Let it cool slightly before flipping onto a serving plate.

Step 6: Drizzle with Icing

While it’s cooling down slightly, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle this delightful icing over warm monkey bread just before serving—it’s like putting on that final touch of love!

And there you have it—your homemade Sourdough Monkey Bread ready to be devoured! Enjoy every gooey bite with family or friends; it’s sure to bring smiles all around.

Pro Tips for Making Sourdough Monkey Bread

Making Sourdough Monkey Bread is a delightful adventure, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use a bubbly starter: A well-fed, active sourdough starter ensures that your dough rises beautifully and has a fantastic flavor. If your starter isn’t bubbly, it may not provide enough leavening power.
• Room temperature ingredients matter: Allow your egg and butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth dough that incorporates air more easily, resulting in fluffier bread.
• Don’t rush the rise: Sourdough requires patience! Allow your dough ample time to rise; this will enhance the flavor and texture. Always look for the dough to double in size before proceeding to the next step.
• Coat generously with butter: When rolling the dough pieces in melted butter, don’t hold back! The buttery coating not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that signature gooey texture.
• Serve warm for the best experience: Sourdough Monkey Bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Its sweet, sticky goodness is magnified when served warm, making it an irresistible treat!

How to Serve Sourdough Monkey Bread

Sourdough Monkey Bread is as much about presentation as it is about taste. Here are some fun ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
• Fresh fruit: Add slices of strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the bread.
• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can brighten up your serving plate and add a refreshing touch.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: A bowl of creamy yogurt layered with granola and fresh fruit makes for a light contrast to the sweetness of monkey bread.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs seasoned with herbs provide a savory option that pairs nicely with the sweet flavors of the monkey bread.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing side that enhances the overall meal experience.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing your monkey bread with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for brunch or dessert.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, get ready to enjoy your delicious Sourdough Monkey Bread! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about Sourdough Monkey Bread is how well it lends itself to meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy this delightful treat whenever you crave a sweet bite!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate it to extend the freshness for up to a week.
• Allow it to cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• To freeze your Sourdough Monkey Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil after it has cooled completely.
• Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag or container for added protection.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the monkey bread and place it on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through; consider covering with foil if it starts to brown too much.

FAQs

Here are some answers to common questions you might have about making Sourdough Monkey Bread.

Can I use any type of sourdough starter for Sourdough Monkey Bread?

Absolutely! Just ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly. It’s essential for achieving that perfect rise and texture.

How long does Sourdough Monkey Bread take to rise?

This recipe requires longer rise times due to the nature of sourdough. Plan on letting the dough rise for about 4-6 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator for convenience.

What can I substitute for butter in Sourdough Monkey Bread?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. This will keep your monkey bread moist and delicious!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy creating this delightful Sourdough Monkey Bread in your kitchen! It’s not just about pulling apart those gooey pieces; it’s about making memories with loved ones over a sweet treat. Don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors and toppings as you embark on this baking adventure. Happy baking!