Monkey bread is a beloved treat that combines the sweetness of cinnamon sugar with the soft, pull-apart texture of dough. For those who follow a gluten-free diet, enjoying this classic dessert might seem out of reach. However, with the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a delicious gluten-free monkey bread that rivals the traditional version. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step recipe, share tips for success, and answer some common questions about gluten-free baking.
Gluten-free baking has come a long way in recent years, with a variety of flours and blends available that mimic the texture and taste of traditional wheat flour. Monkey bread, with its sticky, gooey goodness, is a perfect candidate for a gluten-free makeover. By using a combination of gluten-free flours and binding agents like xanthan gum, you can achieve a dough that’s just as soft and pliable as its gluten-containing counterpart. Plus, this recipe is perfect for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful treat.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make gluten-free monkey bread. Most of these items can be found in your local grocery store or online.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free all-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Xanthan gum | 1 tsp |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Active dry yeast | 2 1/4 tsp |
| Warm milk (dairy or non-dairy) | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tbsp |
| Additional butter for coating | 1/2 cup |
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour, xanthan gum, granulated sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the melted butter and eggs to the yeast mixture, then pour this into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. The dough will be sticky, but that’s normal for gluten-free dough.
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. The dough should double in size. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the bowl in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) to help the dough rise.
While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Melt the additional butter in a separate bowl. Once the dough has risen, pinch off small pieces and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
Dip each dough ball into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Place the coated balls into a greased bundt pan, layering them evenly. Once all the dough balls are in the pan, drizzle any remaining butter and cinnamon sugar over the top.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the monkey bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread is cooked through. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate. Serve warm and enjoy!
Yes, you can easily make this recipe dairy-free by using a non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) and a dairy-free butter substitute. Just make sure to check the labels to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
Absolutely! You can use coconut sugar, maple sugar, or even a sugar substitute like erythritol if you prefer. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on the type of sugar you use.
Leftover monkey bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before assembling and baking. This is a great option for holiday mornings or special occasions.
Gluten-free monkey bread is a delightful treat that brings the joy of baking to those who follow a gluten-free diet. With the right ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dessert that’s just as delicious and satisfying as the traditional version. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the sweet, sticky goodness of gluten-free monkey bread!
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