As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in and the leaves transform into shades of gold and crimson, there’s a certain warmth that calls for seasonal baking. Just the thought of gooey Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread fills me with joy. This recipe is like a warm hug that captures the essence of fall—sweet, tender biscuit pieces, enveloped in an irresistible pumpkin caramel sauce that oozes with every pull apart.
Imagine the kitchen bustling with laughter as family and friends gather around, eager to dig into this comforting treat. It’s an easy recipe, perfectly suited for both a leisurely weekend breakfast or as a showstopper dessert after dinner. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this luscious bread promises to become a cherished staple in your autumn repertoire. So grab a can of buttermilk biscuits and let’s create a delightful experience that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart!
Why is Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread a Must-Try?
Cozy Vibes: This recipe captures the essence of fall, bringing a warm and inviting atmosphere to your kitchen.
Quick Prep: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of pumpkin spices and gooey caramel creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this dish will impress everyone!
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it the night before and refrigerate, so it’s ready to bake in the morning for fresh enjoyment.
Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread Ingredients
For the Biscuit Base
• 16.3-oz. cans refrigerated buttermilk biscuits – Provides the base structure and texture for the monkey bread; do not use flaky varieties.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the biscuit dough; can substitute with coconut sugar if desired.
• 1 Tbsp. pumpkin pie spice – Introduces the signature fall flavor profile; if unavailable, use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
For the Caramel Sauce
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter – Offers moisture and richness; unsalted butter can be used, but add a pinch of salt.
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar – Creates a caramel-like sauce when melted; dark brown sugar can be swapped for a deeper flavor.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Contributes creaminess to the caramel sauce; half-and-half may be used as a lighter alternative.
• 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree – Essential for the pumpkin flavor; use pure puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness.
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; omit if desired.
Get ready to indulge in the delightful Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread! It’s the perfect autumn dessert that your family and friends will love.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread
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Prep Oven and Bundt Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a Bundt pan to prevent the bread from sticking later.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sugar.
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Prepare Biscuit Mixture: Using kitchen scissors, cut each biscuit into quarters, then toss the pieces in the sugar-spice mixture until they are thoroughly coated.
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Make Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Once melted, add in the light brown sugar, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble gently.
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Assemble in Bundt Pan: Layer the coated biscuit pieces evenly into the prepared Bundt pan. Pour approximately half of the warm caramel sauce over the biscuit layers, ensuring even coverage.
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Bake: Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is a deep golden brown and puffed up by about 2 inches.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the pumpkin spice monkey bread to cool for a few minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the warm bread for an extra indulgent touch.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread
Room Temperature: Store pumpkin spice monkey bread at room temperature in a covered dish for up to 3 days to maintain its soft texture.
Refrigerator: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but be aware it may become slightly drier.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; pumpkin spice monkey bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the leftovers, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check that your canned biscuits are fresh; expired products may not rise properly, affecting the final texture.
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Even Coating: Ensure each biscuit piece is well-coated in the sugar-spice mix. This guarantees flavor in every bite of your Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread!
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Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness around 40 minutes. Look for a deep golden brown top and a puffed-up appearance.
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Cool Briefly: Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before inverting. This helps the caramel sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
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Store Wisely: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the gooey texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the biscuit mixture and layer it in the Bundt pan up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow steps 1 through 5, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. To maintain the quality and prevent browning, it’s essential to make sure the mixture is well-coated in the sugar-spice blend. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the cover, pour the caramel sauce over the top, and pop it in the oven as specified in the recipe. You’ll enjoy a deliciously warm treat with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread?
Indulge in this warm, spiced treat that calls for delightful accompaniments to elevate your autumn experience.
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Coffee or Tea: The rich flavors of pumpkin spice pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, enhancing the warm, cozy vibe.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds velvety smoothness, creating a delightful contrast to the gooey caramel.
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Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: For a sweet start, serve mini cinnamon sugar doughnuts alongside for playful bites that echo the flavors of your monkey bread.
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Caramel Drizzle: Extra caramel sauce drizzled on top gives every slice a lavish sweetness that makes each bite a treat to savor.
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Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider for a seasonal drink that complements the spices in your monkey bread for a comforting combination.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzle some pure maple syrup over the monkey bread for an added touch of sweetness that captures fall’s essence.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over warm bread offers a delightful warmth and creaminess that’s simply irresistible.
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Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy contrast that marries textures beautifully with the soft bread.
Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity and enhance this delightful treat with these enticing twists!
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Homemade Dough: Swap buttermilk biscuits with your favorite homemade dough for a heartier texture. The fresh-baked goodness elevates this dish to a new level.
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the biscuit layers for a crunchy surprise. This not only adds texture but also a rich, earthy flavor.
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Chocolate Lover’s Heaven: Incorporate semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. The combination of pumpkin and chocolate makes for an indulgent treat everyone will adore.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan butter and coconut cream instead of regular butter and heavy cream. This way, you can enjoy the same gooey goodness without dairy.
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Sugar-Free Substitute: Stevia or erythritol can replace granulated and brown sugars for a lower-calorie version. It’s a fantastic option for those cutting back on sugar.
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Spicy Kick: For a more adventurous flavor, toss in some cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños. This pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness and creates a delightful heat.
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Seasonal Swaps: Exchange pumpkin puree for apple cider or puree, evoking the flavors of another season while keeping the same comforting textures.
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Zesty Infusion: Add a splash of orange or lemon zest to the caramel sauce for an unexpected citrus twist. This brightens up the overall flavor without overpowering the warm spices.
Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of biscuits should I use for Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread?
Absolutely! For the best results, use refrigerated buttermilk biscuits, as they provide the ideal texture. Avoid flaky varieties, as they won’t hold up as well in this recipe.
How should I store Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread?
Store leftover monkey bread at room temperature in a covered dish for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigeration is an option; just remember to use an airtight container to minimize moisture loss, which can dry it out.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread?
Very! To freeze, first let the monkey bread cool completely. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat the Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread?
To bring back that delicious gooeyness, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, which also helps maintain their texture.
What if my Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread is too sticky to remove from the Bundt pan?
Don’t worry! If you’re having trouble, simply return the Bundt pan to the oven for 5 minutes. This will melt the caramel a bit, giving you a better chance to release the monkey bread without damaging it.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, this Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread is nut-free as written. However, be cautious about any toppings or mix-ins you might consider adding. Always check labels if you’re using prepared ingredients to ensure they meet dietary needs.
Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread: Your Cozy Fall Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a Bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice.
- Cut each biscuit into quarters, then toss the pieces in the sugar-spice mixture until thoroughly coated.
- Melt the salted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add in the light brown sugar, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.
- Layer the coated biscuit pieces evenly into the prepared Bundt pan. Pour half of the warm caramel sauce over the biscuits.
- Place the Bundt pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before inverting onto a serving plate. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the bread.