The Best Sourdough Monkey Bread

Key Benefits of Making Sourdough Monkey Bread

There’s something amazing about pulling apart a warm, gooey loaf of sourdough monkey bread fresh from the oven. Not only does it smell incredible, but it also brings people together in a way few other treats can. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your baking repertoire:

• Natural Fermentation Goodness : Unlike traditional monkey bread made with yeast, this version uses a tangy sourdough starter. It adds depth of flavor and makes the dough easier to digest—a win-win for health-conscious bakers.

• Versatile Flavor Profile : The combination of buttery richness, sweet cinnamon sugar, and soft sourdough creates layers of flavor that are impossible to resist. Plus, you can tweak it to suit your taste—add chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a drizzle of glaze for extra indulgence.

• Perfect for Any Occasion : Whether you’re serving brunch to family, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply craving a comforting snack, this pull-apart bread is always a crowd-pleaser. Its versatility means it works just as well for breakfast as it does for dessert

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• Beginner-Friendly with a Twist : While sourdough might sound intimidating, this recipe breaks down the process into simple steps. With a bit of patience and our expert tips, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results at home.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started! In the next section, we’ll cover everything you need to gather before rolling up your sleeves—including all the ingredients and tools required for success. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

 Ingredients for The Best Sourdough Monkey Bread

Before we get our hands doughy, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Having all your ingredients prepped and measured ahead of time ensures a smooth baking process—and less stress for you! Here’s what goes into this deliciously sticky, pull-apart masterpiece:

For the Dough:

• 300g active sourdough starter : Make sure it’s bubbly and ready to go—this is the star of the show!
• 350g all-purpose flour : Plus a little extra for dusting; we want that soft texture.
• 120ml whole milk : Warm it slightly to help activate the starter without overheating it.
• 1 large egg : Adds richness and helps with structure.
• 40g unsalted butter : Melted and cooled, because who doesn’t love buttery bread?
• 1 teaspoon salt : Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1 cup granulated sugar : You can adjust based on how sweet you like it.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon : Or swap in other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for fun twists.
• 60g unsalted butter : Melted and waiting to coat those golden nuggets of joy.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans): A crunchy contrast to the soft dough.
• Dried fruits (raisins, cranberries): Adds natural sweetness and chewiness.
• Chocolate chips : Because chocolate makes everything better.

Pro tip: Use high-quality ingredients whenever possible—they truly make a difference in taste and texture. And don’t worry if your measurements aren’t perfect; baking should be fun, not stressful! Now that we’ve got everything ready, let’s talk about the tools you’ll need to bring this dreamy loaf to life.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Now that we’ve got our ingredients lined up, let’s talk about the tools you’ll need to bring this sourdough monkey bread to life. Don’t worry—you don’t need a professional bakery setup; just a few basics will do the trick!

Essential Tools:

• Large Mixing Bowl : For combining your dough ingredients. A sturdy one is key to avoid spills during kneading.
• Silicone Spatula : Perfect for folding in ingredients and scraping every last bit of goodness from the bowl.
• Baking Pan : A bundt pan works beautifully for that classic pull-apart shape, but a loaf pan or muffin tin can work too if you’re feeling creative.
• Parchment Paper : Line your pan to prevent sticking—no one wants to lose a piece of heaven to the bottom of the pan!
• Pastry Brush : Great for spreading melted butter evenly over the dough pieces.
• Kitchen Scale (Optional) : If you’re into precision, weighing ingredients ensures consistent results.

Nice-to-Have Tools:

• Stand Mixer with Dough Hook : Saves your arms from some serious kneading action, though hand-kneading works just fine.
• Proofing Basket or Bowl : Helps maintain the shape of the dough while it rises. Cover it with a damp towel if you don’t have a basket.

Instructions for This Sourdough Monkey Bread

Now comes the fun part—let’s make that delicious sourdough monkey bread! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, gooey masterpiece in no time. Don’t worry; I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), combine your active sourdough starter , warm milk , and melted butter . Stir gently until fully mixed.
2. Add the flour , egg , and salt to the mixture. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to stir until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or use the dough hook attachment on your stand mixer for 3-4 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth, elastic texture.

Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

Step 2: Let It Rise

1. Place the kneaded dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 2-4 hours. The rising time may vary depending on the strength of your sourdough starter and room temperature.
2. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles.

Step 3: Shape the Pieces

1. Divide the risen dough into approximately 24 equal pieces (about 30g each). Roll each piece into a ball between your palms.
2. Melt the 60g of butter for the coating and mix it with the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Dip each dough ball into the mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Pro Tip: If adding optional ingredients like chopped nuts or chocolate chips, press them gently into the coated dough balls before placing them in the pan.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Grease your bundt pan generously (or line it with parchment paper) and arrange the coated dough balls inside, snugly packed together. Cover the pan and let the dough rest for another 30-60 minutes to proof slightly.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully turning it out onto a serving plate.
2. Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk (optional) for an extra touch of sweetness.

And there you have it—a showstopping sourdough monkey bread ready to impress family and friends! Now, let’s talk about some expert tips and variations to take your creation to the next level.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Check Your Starter : Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before beginning. A sluggish starter can lead to flat dough, so feed it well and give it time to wake up.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough : While kneading is essential, overworking the dough can make it tough. Stop when it feels smooth and elastic but still soft.
• Proofing Patience Pays Off : Letting the dough rest properly ensures those delightful air pockets that make monkey bread so irresistible. Rushing the proofing process can result in dense bread.
• Grease Generously : To avoid sticking, don’t skimp on greasing (or lining) your bundt pan. You want every gooey piece to come out intact!

Serving Suggestions for Your Sourdough Monkey Bread

Your sourdough monkey bread is out of the oven, golden brown, and smelling absolutely divine—now it’s time to decide how you’ll enjoy this warm, gooey treat! Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, here are some ideas to make your experience even more delightful.

Pair It with Complementary Flavors

• Sweet Accompaniments : Serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Warm Beverages : Pair your monkey bread with a steaming cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or spiced tea for the ultimate cozy combo.
• Fruit Additions : Fresh berries, sliced apples, or a small bowl of fruit compote can balance the richness of the bread while adding a pop of color to your plate.

Occasion-Specific Ideas

• Breakfast or Brunch : Cut the bread into smaller portions and serve it as part of a continental breakfast spread. Add scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and yogurt for a well-rounded meal.
• Dessert Delight : Offer slices of your monkey bread with a side of caramel sauce or chocolate fondue for dipping. It’s perfect for ending a dinner party on a sweet note.
• Snack Time : Keep things simple by enjoying warm pieces straight from the pan, or pack individual servings in wax paper for an easy grab-and-go option.

Seasonal Twists

• Holiday Charm : During colder months, sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar over the bread and serve it with mulled cider or eggnog for a festive twist.
• Summer Vibes : In warmer weather, pair your monkey bread with fresh peach slices or a berry salad for a lighter, refreshing contrast.

Presentation Tips

• Platter Perfection : Place the entire loaf on a decorative platter and let guests pull apart pieces themselves—it’s interactive and fun!
• Individual Servings : For a more polished presentation, cut the bread into bite-sized chunks and arrange them neatly on a tray. This works especially well for parties or buffets.

No matter how you choose to serve it, your sourdough monkey bread is sure to be a hit. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together—and keeps them coming back for seconds.

 Conclusion

Congratulations, you’ve just created a showstopping sourdough monkey bread that’s as delicious as it is impressive! Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it all by yourself, this recipe proves that homemade treats can be both comforting and extraordinary.

Making sourdough monkey bread might seem like a labor of love, but trust me—it’s worth every moment. From the tangy richness of the sourdough starter to the gooey, cinnamon-sugar goodness of each bite, this bread captures everything we adore about baking: creativity, warmth, and connection.

Not only does this recipe let you experiment with flavors and textures, but it also invites you to slow down and enjoy the process. There’s something truly magical about watching dough transform into a golden, pull-apart masterpiece—and knowing you made it happen.

So, whether you’re serving this bread at your next brunch, gifting it to friends, or simply treating yourself on a quiet afternoon, remember this: every loaf tells a story. And yours? Well, it’s already written in buttery, fluffy perfection.

The Best Sourdough Monkey Bread

There’s something amazing about pulling apart a warm, gooey loaf of sourdough monkey bread fresh from the oven.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

• For the Dough:
• 300 g active sourdough starter : Make sure it’s bubbly and ready to go—this is the star of the show!
• 350 g all-purpose flour : Plus a little extra for dusting; we want that soft texture.
• 120 ml whole milk : Warm it slightly to help activate the starter without overheating it.
• 1 large egg : Adds richness and helps with structure.
• 40 g unsalted butter : Melted and cooled because who doesn’t love buttery bread?
• 1 teaspoon salt : Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
• 1 cup granulated sugar : You can adjust based on how sweet you like it.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon : Or swap in other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for fun twists.
• 60 g unsalted butter : Melted and waiting to coat those golden nuggets of joy.
• Optional Add-Ins:
• Chopped nuts walnuts, pecans: A crunchy contrast to the soft dough.
• Dried fruits raisins, cranberries: Adds natural sweetness and chewiness.
• Chocolate chips : Because chocolate makes everything better.

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Prepare the Dough
• In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), combine your active sourdough starter , warm milk , and melted butter . Stir gently until fully mixed.
• Add the flour , egg , and salt to the mixture. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to stir until the dough starts to come together.
• Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or use the dough hook attachment on your stand mixer for 3-4 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth, elastic texture.
• Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
• Step 2: Let It Rise
• Place the kneaded dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 2-4 hours. The rising time may vary depending on the strength of your sourdough starter and room temperature.
• Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles.
• Step 3: Shape the Pieces
• Divide the risen dough into approximately 24 equal pieces (about 30g each). Roll each piece into a ball between your palms.
• Melt the 60g of butter for the coating and mix it with the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Dip each dough ball into the mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
• Pro Tip: If adding optional ingredients like chopped nuts or chocolate chips, press them gently into the coated dough balls before placing them in the pan.
• Step 4: Assemble and Bake
• Grease your bundt pan generously (or line it with parchment paper) and arrange the coated dough balls inside, snugly packed together. Cover the pan and let the dough rest for another 30-60 minutes to proof slightly.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the monkey bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
• Step 5: Cool and Serve
• Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully turning it out onto a serving plate.
• Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk (optional) for an extra touch of sweetness.

Keyword Sourdough Monkey Bread

 FAQs 

Have questions about making this delightful sourdough monkey bread? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries (and answers) to help you troubleshoot, refine, and perfect your baking experience.

1. Can I use store-bought yeast instead of sourdough starter?

While the recipe is designed for sourdough, you can substitute with active dry yeast if needed. Replace the sourdough starter with 2 ¼ teaspoons (or one packet) of instant or active dry yeast dissolved in warm milk. However, keep in mind that the unique tangy flavor of sourdough won’t be present.

2. How do I know if my sourdough starter is active enough?

Your starter should look bubbly and smell slightly tangy. If it’s been refrigerated, take it out a day ahead and feed it twice before using. A sluggish starter may lead to flat dough, so patience is key here.

3. What if my dough is too sticky or dry?

If the dough feels overly sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it becomes manageable. Conversely, if it’s too dry, sprinkle in small amounts of water or milk. The goal is a soft, elastic texture that holds together without being gummy.

4. Can I freeze the monkey bread for later?

Absolutely! Once baked, let the bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.

5. Why did my monkey bread turn out dense?

Dense bread often results from under-proofing or over-kneading. Make sure your dough has risen sufficiently during both stages (mixing and assembling). Additionally, avoid kneading the dough excessively, as this can make it tough.

6. Can I make mini monkey breads?

Yes, absolutely! Divide the dough into smaller portions and bake them in a muffin tin. Reduce the baking time to 15-20 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or gifts.

7. Is there a gluten-free option?

You can try substituting all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking. Be aware that the texture might differ slightly, but many bakers have success with this swap. Adjust liquid content as needed to achieve the right consistency.

8. How long does the bread stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, sourdough monkey bread stays fresh for 2-3 days. For extended freshness, refrigerate or freeze as mentioned earlier. Reheat briefly to restore its gooey goodness.