The crisp air and vibrant leaves of fall bring back fond memories of family gatherings centered around the warm and cozy embrace of home-cooked treats. This Pumpkin Monkey Bread captures that essence beautifully. You'll be enveloped in an irresistible aroma as buttery biscuit pieces blend with sweet pumpkin pie filling, creating a slice of heaven that everyone will adore.
This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for everything from casual brunches to festive Thanksgiving dinners. Imagine pulling apart fluffy, gooey chunks of bread, coated in warm spices, each bite revealing the comforting flavors of fall. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to escape the fast-food rut, this delightful dessert will surely impress your family and friends. Grab your bundt pan and let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing Pumpkin Monkey Bread recipe!
Why is Pumpkin Monkey Bread a must-try?
Unforgettable flavor: The rich combination of pumpkin and warm spices strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory.
Gooey goodness: Every piece pulls apart effortlessly, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will keep you coming back for more.
Quick and easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, it's perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers alike.
Versatile delight: Ideal for gatherings, brunches, or simply satisfying a sweet craving at home.
Make-ahead option: Easily prepare this dessert the day before and reheat for a cozy, fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
Enjoy this irresistible treat warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream on the side, and make your fall gatherings memorable!
Pumpkin Monkey Bread Ingredients
• The perfect blend for effortless baking!
For the Bread
- Cinnamon Rolls – Provides the base for the bread structure; buttery and soft.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and caramel flavor that complements the pumpkin.
- Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter – Enhances richness and moisture in the bread.
- Pure Pumpkin – Gives moisture and a subtle earthy sweetness, plus it's packed with vitamins.
- Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and a rich flavor to the filling.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile and adds warmth.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides additional sweetness in the sugar-coating mixture for the dough.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses the bread with classic fall flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
For the Cinnamon Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Forms the base of the glaze, creating a smooth, sweet topping.
- Milk – Thins the glaze to the desired drizzling consistency.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds extra spice and flavor to the glaze.
How to Make Pumpkin Monkey Bread
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a bundt pan with baking spray. This ensures easy release once your delightful bread is done baking.
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Combine the brown sugar, butter, pure pumpkin, cream cheese, and vanilla in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until smooth and creamy, and then set it aside to allow the flavors to meld.
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Cut the cinnamon rolls into quarters and place them into a zip-top bag. Add granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice, then shake gently to coat evenly for that sweet, spiced goodness.
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Layer half of the coated cinnamon roll pieces in the prepared bundt pan. Carefully pour half of the pumpkin mixture over them, ensuring every roll gets a touch of that terrific sweetness.
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Repeat by adding the remaining cinnamon roll pieces and topping them with the rest of the pumpkin mixture. This layering creates that irresistible gooey texture.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and golden brown. Keep an eye on it as ovens can vary; you want that perfect golden hue!
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Cool for 15 minutes in the pan before inverting it onto a wire rack. This allows it to set without falling apart, giving you that beautiful bundt shape!
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Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, vanilla, milk, and ground cinnamon. Drizzle this delicious mixture over the warm monkey bread for a heavenly touch.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Monkey Bread
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Room Temperature: If you plan to consume your Pumpkin Monkey Bread within a day, store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its soft texture.
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Fridge: For up to 3 days, refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent drying out—this keeps the gooey essence intact.
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Freezer: You can freeze your Pumpkin Monkey Bread for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, to avoid freezer burn and maintain flavor.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to revive the delightful gooeyness of the pumpkin filling.
Pumpkin Monkey Bread Variations
Feel free to make this delightful dessert your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
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Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that complements the pumpkin's creaminess.
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Chocolate Delight: Add chocolate chips alongside the cinnamon roll pieces for an indulgent surprise in every bite. It's like a fall version of a chocolate chip cookie.
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Maple Flavor: Swap out the granulated sugar in the glaze for maple syrup to infuse a warm, earthy sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
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Vegan Version: Replace the cream cheese and butter with vegan options, and use almond or oat milk for the glaze. You won’t miss the dairy here!
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Spicy Kick: Boost the flavor by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the pumpkin mixture, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat.
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Dried Fruit: Toss in dried cranberries or raisins for chewy bites that add a festive touch to your pumpkin monkey bread.
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Coconut Infusion: Incorporate shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flair that adds texture and flavor—perfect for coconut lovers!
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Apple Twist: Layer in thinly sliced apples between the cinnamon rolls and pumpkin mixture for a lovely fruity addition that enhances the fall vibes.
Each of these variations offers a unique twist, allowing you to experience the delightful taste of fall in new and exciting ways!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Monkey Bread?
The cozy flavors of fall inspire a delightful feast that pairs beautifully with this sweet, spiced bread.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream elevates every warm bite, creating a comforting contrast to the gooey bread.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: Enhance the warm spices with a drizzle of rich maple syrup, adding a touch of sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
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Caramel Sauce: A silky pour of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds decadence and a lovely sweet dimension to your dessert.
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Spiced Hot Cider: Sip on a mug of warm spiced apple cider, with its fragrant cinnamon and clove notes to enhance the autumn experience.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Top dessert slices with a dollop of cream cheese frosting for added richness; it echoes the flavors in the monkey bread beautifully.
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Candied Pecans: The crunch of candied pecans adds a delightful texture contrast, while their sweetness complements the pumpkin flavor.
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Charcuterie Board: A selection of cheeses, nuts, and fruits provides a savory balance to the sweetness of the bread, making it perfect for gathering with friends.
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Coffee or Chai Latte: Pair your monkey bread with a hot cup of coffee or a chai latte, allowing the warm spices to dance together for a cozy dining experience.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season with a pumpkin spice latte; the flavors intertwine beautifully, offering a warm hug in a mug alongside your dessert.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Monkey Bread
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Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing into the pumpkin filling, avoiding lumps in your delicious mixture.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your Pumpkin Monkey Bread as baking times may vary. You want it golden brown but not overcooked for that gooey texture.
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Warm is Best: For the best experience, serve the monkey bread warm. It enhances flavors and preserves the delightful gooeyness everyone loves!
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Coating Technique: When coating the cinnamon roll pieces, ensure even coverage. Shake gently to prevent breaking them, which helps maintain their structure.
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Custom Spice Blend: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, make your own! Combine cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to create a flavorful alternative that feels just as seasonal.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Monkey Bread bites are an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones. You can prepare the pumpkin mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the pure pumpkin, cream cheese, and spices in a bowl and storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Also, cut the cinnamon rolls and coat them with sugar and spices ahead of time, keeping them sealed in a zip-top bag for optimal freshness. Then, when you're ready to bake, simply layer the coated cinnamon rolls and pumpkin mixture in the bundt pan as per the recipe, and enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste! This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to serve with minimal last-minute effort.
Pumpkin Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose pumpkins for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkins, look for ones that are firm, smooth-skinned, and free of blemishes or dark spots. A medium-sized pumpkin typically works best; if you're using canned pumpkin, ensure it's 100% pure pumpkin with no added sugars or flavors.
How long can I store Pumpkin Monkey Bread in the refrigerator?
Very! You can store your Pumpkin Monkey Bread in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container, and if it’s not consumed within this timeframe, reheating it in the oven will help restore its original gooey texture.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Monkey Bread? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Pumpkin Monkey Bread for up to 2 months! To do so, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and then wrap it in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that warm, fresh-baked flavor.
What should I do if my Monkey Bread is too dry?
If you find that your Pumpkin Monkey Bread is a bit dry, that's usually due to overbaking. Always start checking for doneness at the lower end of the baking time. If it does end up dry, you can drizzle extra glaze or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream to add moisture and enhance the flavors!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?
Certainly! To make it dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese and use non-dairy milk in the glaze. For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free cinnamon rolls, which are widely available in stores. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free options often bake differently.
Is it safe for pets? Can I share this treat with them?
It's best to avoid sharing Pumpkin Monkey Bread with pets. This dessert contains ingredients like sugar and cream cheese that are not suitable for many pets. Stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends!
Gooey Pumpkin Monkey Bread: The Best Fall Dessert Ever!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a bundt pan with baking spray.
- Combine the brown sugar, butter, pure pumpkin, cream cheese, and vanilla in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until smooth and creamy, and then set it aside.
- Cut the cinnamon rolls into quarters and place them into a zip-top bag. Add granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice, then shake gently to coat evenly.
- Layer half of the coated cinnamon roll pieces in the prepared bundt pan. Carefully pour half of the pumpkin mixture over them.
- Repeat by adding the remaining cinnamon roll pieces and topping them with the rest of the pumpkin mixture.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and golden brown.
- Cool for 15 minutes in the pan before inverting it onto a wire rack.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, vanilla, milk, and ground cinnamon. Drizzle this mixture over the warm monkey bread.
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