Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread Recipe

Are you looking for a delightful treat that combines the cozy flavors of fall with a fun, pull-apart bread that's perfect for sharing? Look no further than this Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread recipe! This mouthwatering creation brings together the sweetness of maple syrup, the warmth of pumpkin, and the soft, gooey goodness of buttermilk biscuits. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy during a cozy morning or to bring to a festive gathering. Read on to discover how you can create this irresistible dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

What is Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread?

Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread is a twist on the classic monkey bread, a pull-apart bread that’s typically made with dough, butter, cinnamon, and sugar. This version infuses the bread with pumpkin puree and maple syrup, adding layers of flavor and a beautiful autumnal hue. The bread is baked in a bundt pan, creating a stunning, golden-brown dome that is both a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Each piece is soft, sweet, and just the right amount of sticky, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients List for Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread

Creating the perfect Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious recipe to life:

For the Bread:

• 3 cans buttermilk biscuits, cut into fourths – The base of the monkey bread, these biscuits provide the perfect soft and fluffy texture.
• 1 cup sugar – Used to coat the biscuit pieces, creating a sweet crust.
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, complementing the pumpkin flavor perfectly.

For the Sauce:

• 1 stick butter – Melted to form the base of the sauce, providing richness.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the sauce.
• 1 cup pumpkin puree – Introduces the earthy, sweet flavor of pumpkin, which is synonymous with fall.
• ¼ cup maple syrup – Enhances the sweetness and adds a distinct, rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread recipe is its flexibility. Here are some substitution and variation ideas to make the recipe your own:

• Biscuits: If you don’t have buttermilk biscuits, you can use regular canned biscuits or even homemade dough. Crescent rolls can also work in a pinch, though the texture will be lighter and flakier.
• Pumpkin Puree: If you’re not a fan of pumpkin, you can substitute it with sweet potato puree or applesauce for a different but equally delicious flavor.
• Maple Syrup: For a different twist, try using honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup. Each will add its unique flavor profile.
• Add-ins: Consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast, or dried cranberries for a pop of tartness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your bundt pan by spraying it generously with non-stick cooking spray. This will help ensure the bread releases easily once baked.
2. Prepare the sugar coating: In a large plastic bag, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Shake the bag to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
3. Coat the biscuit pieces: Cut each can of biscuits into fourths. Place 8-10 pieces of biscuits into the sugar mixture, seal the bag, and shake until each piece is well-coated. Continue this process with all the biscuit pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
4. Layer the biscuits: Arrange the coated biscuit pieces in the prepared bundt pan in even layers. This will help the bread bake uniformly and make it easier to pull apart once it’s done.
5. Prepare the sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the brown sugar until dissolved. Add the pumpkin puree and whisk until smooth. Finally, add the maple syrup, whisking to combine all ingredients into a smooth, rich sauce.
6. Pour the sauce over the biscuits: Carefully pour the prepared sauce evenly over the layered biscuit pieces in the bundt pan. The sauce will seep into the spaces between the biscuits, infusing them with flavor as they bake.
7. Bake the bread: Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then cover the pan with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Cool and serve: Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a serving platter to release the bread. Drizzle the top with additional maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls to ensure your bread turns out perfectly:

• Overcrowding the pan: Make sure to evenly layer the biscuit pieces in the bundt pan. Overcrowding can lead to uneven baking and doughy sections in the bread.
• Not covering the bread: If you don’t cover the bread with foil after the initial 20 minutes, the top may become too dark before the center is fully cooked.
• Not greasing the pan adequately: Failing to properly grease the bundt pan can result in the bread sticking, making it difficult to remove without damaging the beautiful shape.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread is a show-stopping dish that deserves a special presentation. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your creation:

How to Serve Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread

• Warm is Best: This bread is best served warm, straight from the oven. The gooey sauce will be at its most luscious, and the bread will be soft and tender.
• Family Style: Place the inverted bread on a large serving platter and let everyone pull apart their portion. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy the treat.
• With Toppings: Serve the bread with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for added indulgence.

Presentation Ideas for Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread

• Autumn Vibes: Decorate your serving platter with a few mini pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to evoke a cozy, fall-inspired presentation.
• Bundt Pan Beauty: The bundt pan creates a beautiful shape for the bread. You can highlight this by serving it on a cake stand for an elevated presentation.
• Glazed Perfection: For an extra touch, consider making a simple glaze with powdered sugar and a bit of maple syrup to drizzle over the top of the bread just before serving.

Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread Recipe Tips

To ensure your Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread is a success every time, keep these additional tips in mind:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow the butter and pumpkin puree to come to room temperature before mixing the sauce. This will help the ingredients combine smoothly.
• Don’t rush the cooling process: Allowing the bread to cool for 5 minutes before inverting it onto a platter helps the sauce set slightly, making it easier to remove from the pan.
• Experiment with spices: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or ginger to the cinnamon-sugar mixture or the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the bread and refrigerate it overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, and you can bake it fresh in the morning.

Q: Can I freeze Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread? A: Yes, after baking and cooling, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator and warm it up in the oven.

Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree? A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-cooked and drained of excess moisture to avoid making the sauce too watery.

Q: What can I use instead of a bundt pan? A: If you don’t have a bundt pan, you can use a regular round or square cake pan. The shape won’t be the same, but the bread will still be delicious.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion

Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread is the ultimate fall treat, combining the best of seasonal flavors into one irresistible dish. With its gooey, caramelized exterior and soft, sweet interior, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread!

Print