Blueberry Monkey Bread

Blueberry Monkey Bread is a delightful pull-apart treat that combines layers of soft, buttery homemade dough with a sweet and tangy blueberry sauce. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, this dish is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack at any time of the day. Whether served warm or cold, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh blueberries and cinnamon creates a deliciously sweet and tangy taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delightful dish ready in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast gatherings, afternoon snacks, or even dessert after dinner.
• Pull-Apart Fun: This treat encourages sharing and is perfect for family gatherings or brunches.
• Customizable Options: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add other fruits to suit your tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Blueberry Monkey Bread, ensure you have all the necessary tools on hand. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (bundt or loaf)
• Rubber spatula
• Whisk
• Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: A stand mixer makes kneading the dough easier, but a mixing bowl works just as well if you prefer to knead by hand.
• Baking pan: A bundt pan provides an impressive shape that helps with even baking and easy serving.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are combined thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• ¾ cup (184 g) whole milk, (heated to 110°F)
• ½ cup water, (heated to 110°F)
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, (melted)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 3 ¼ cups (406 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

For the Blueberry Filling

• 2 cups (296 g) fresh blueberries, (divided)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cold water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 pinch kosher salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, (melted)
• 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, (packed)
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

• 4 ounces (½ package) cream cheese, (softened)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, (softened)
• ⅔ cup (83 g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tablespoon whole milk, (or more as needed for desired consistency)

How to Make Blueberry Monkey Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and water. Sprinkle yeast over the mixture and let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter to the flour mixture along with the yeast mixture. Mix until combined.
4. Knead dough on a floured surface or using a stand mixer with a dough hook until smooth, about 6–8 minutes.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, around 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Blueberry Filling

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of blueberries with granulated sugar.
2. Stir in cornstarch mixed with cold water and lemon juice; cook until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and fold in remaining blueberries gently.

Step 3: Assemble Monkey Bread

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Punch down risen dough; divide into small pieces about the size of golf balls.
3. Dip each piece in melted butter then roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture before layering them in your prepared baking pan.
4. Pour blueberry filling evenly over layered dough pieces.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for approximately 40–45 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Cool slightly before inverting onto a serving plate.

Step 5: Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze

1. Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Gradually mix in confectioners’ sugar and milk until desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Serve

Drizzle cream cheese glaze over warm monkey bread before serving!

Enjoy your delicious Blueberry Monkey Bread! It’s sure to be a hit at any occasion!

How to Serve Blueberry Monkey Bread

Blueberry Monkey Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, there are numerous options to enhance its flavor and presentation.

Breakfast Delight

• Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
• Pair with yogurt for added creaminess and protein.

Dessert Indulgence

• Drizzle extra cream cheese glaze on top for a sweet finish.
• Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Snack Time Treat

• Enjoy it plain for a quick and satisfying snack.
• Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.

How to Perfect Blueberry Monkey Bread

To make your Blueberry Monkey Bread truly irresistible, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your treat turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh blueberries: Fresh berries provide the best flavor and texture. Frozen berries can become mushy during baking.
• Let the dough rise properly: Ensure your dough rises in a warm place until it doubles in size for fluffy bread.
• Don’t skip the glaze: A cream cheese glaze adds richness that complements the blueberries beautifully.
• Experiment with spices: Adding nutmeg or cardamom can give your monkey bread an extra depth of flavor.
• Serve immediately: This treat is best enjoyed warm, but you can reheat leftovers in the oven for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Monkey Bread

Blueberry Monkey Bread pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweetness and enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy, tangy option that balances the sweetness of the monkey bread.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and nutrition.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy eggs provide protein and make for a hearty breakfast when paired together.
4. Oven-Baked Bacon Alternative: Try turkey bacon or beef jerky for a savory contrast to the sweet bread.
5. Cinnamon Applesauce: This fruity side dish adds warmth and spice to your meal.
6. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or cashew butter offers healthy fats and pairs well with the bread’s flavors.
7. Herbal Tea: A soothing beverage choice that complements the sweetness while providing relaxation.
8. Vanilla Ice Cream: Perfect for dessert-style servings; it melts deliciously over warm monkey bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Blueberry Monkey Bread a standout treat. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Insufficient yeast activation: Not letting the yeast sit long enough can lead to dense bread. Always allow it to bubble before mixing with other ingredients.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading too much will make the bread tough. Aim for a smooth dough without excessive handling.
• Skipping the butter coating: Neglecting to coat the dough pieces in melted butter can result in dry bread. Ensure each piece is thoroughly covered for that rich flavor.
• Ignoring resting times: Rushing through the rising times can prevent proper fluffiness. Allow adequate time for the dough to rise for light and airy bread.
• Uneven baking temperature: Baking at incorrect temperatures can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Blueberry Monkey Bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Blueberry Monkey Bread

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; it’s best to slice it before freezing for easy access.

Reheating Blueberry Monkey Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for about 30 seconds, adding more time as needed.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Blueberry Monkey Bread.

Can I use frozen blueberries in Blueberry Monkey Bread?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding them to the recipe.

What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or whole wheat flour, but this may alter the texture slightly.

How do I make my Blueberry Monkey Bread healthier?

Consider using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, or adding nuts or seeds for added nutrition without compromising flavor.

Can Blueberry Monkey Bread be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and assemble it a day in advance. Just refrigerate overnight and bake in the morning.

What is the best way to serve Blueberry Monkey Bread?

It’s delicious served warm with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze or even plain! Perfect as breakfast, dessert, or a snack any time of day.

Final Thoughts

Blueberry Monkey Bread is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile! Whether enjoyed as breakfast or dessert, this pull-apart treat satisfies every craving. Feel free to customize with different fruits or spices to make it your own!