There’s nothing quite like the intoxicating scent of warm cinnamon swirling through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. The first time I made this Gluten Free Monkey Bread, it was an experiment born from a craving and an unexpected pantry discovery. As the oven worked its magic, I was delighted to see how quickly this delightful treat came together.
Perfectly soft, sticky bites coated in cinnamon sugar, this monkey bread offers a playful twist that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re seeking a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet finale to dinner, this recipe is a shining star. With the convenience of gluten-free ingredients, you can indulge without compromise, making it a versatile addition to any gathering.
Join me in whipping up a batch that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds)! Trust me; your kitchen has never smelled so good.
Why is Gluten Free Monkey Bread a must-try?
Delightfully Easy: This recipe is a breeze to make, allowing even novice cooks to whip it up without stress.
Cinnamon Goodness: Each bite is bursting with a warm, sweet cinnamon flavor that will take you straight to comfort food heaven.
Gluten-Free Appeal: Perfectly crafted for those sensitive to gluten, it doesn’t skimp on taste or texture, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Perfect for Sharing: This monkey bread makes an enticing centerpiece for gatherings, prompting everyone to dig in and share.
Quick Bake Time: With just 25 minutes in the oven, deliciousness is only a short wait away!
Elevate your baking game with this irresistible treat, perfect for cozy moments. For more delightful recipes, don’t miss our amazing Gluten Free Dessert Collection.
Gluten Free Monkey Bread Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this cozy treat!
For the Dough
• All-purpose gluten free flour – an essential base that keeps this monkey bread light and fluffy.
• Xanthan gum – helps provide structure and elasticity to the dough, mimicking traditional gluten.
• Baking powder – ensures the dough rises perfectly, yielding a soft texture.
• Kosher salt – enhances the flavors of the bread, balancing the sweetness.
• Greek-style plain yogurt – adds moisture and richness, making the bread deliciously tender.
• Lukewarm water – helps bring the dough together; add more if needed for consistency.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
• Granulated sugar – sweetens every bite, creating a delightful contrast with the cinnamon.
• Ground cinnamon – infuses the monkey bread with that wonderful, warm aroma everyone loves.
• Kosher salt – just a pinch enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter – melted, this helps the dough rounds stick to the cinnamon sugar coating beautifully.
For the Glaze
• Confectioners’ sugar – creates a sweet, creamy glaze to drizzle on top, making it extra indulgent.
• Milk – adds the perfect consistency to the glaze; adjust according to your desired thickness.
Gather these ingredients and get ready to treat yourself to a delightful experience with this Gluten Free Monkey Bread!
How to Make Gluten Free Monkey Bread
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Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F. Prepare a standard 9-inch x 5-inch loaf pan with unbleached parchment paper or use a muffin tin with liners for individual servings.
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Whisk dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum, baking powder, and kosher salt. Give it a good whisk to break up any lumps, making for a smoother dough.
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Mix in wet ingredients: Add the Greek yogurt and 3 tablespoons of lukewarm water to the dry mix. Stir until the dough starts to come together. If it feels too dry, add an extra tablespoon of water and mix again.
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Knead the dough: Lightly flour your surface, then turn out the dough. Knead gently until it feels smooth and elastic, which should take just a minute or two.
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Roll the dough: Shape your dough into a rectangle about 1-inch thick. Make sure to flour your rolling pin slightly to avoid sticking.
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Cut out dough rounds: Using a small round cookie cutter, cut out as many rounds as you can, flouring the cutter as needed to keep it from sticking.
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Coat with cinnamon sugar: In a deep bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Dip each round of dough in melted butter before tossing it in the cinnamon sugar mix until coated.
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Arrange in pan: Place the coated dough pieces into your prepared loaf pan or muffin tin. Make sure they’re snug but not tightly packed, as they will expand while baking.
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Bake until golden: Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake until the top is a lovely light golden brown and feels firm to the touch. This should take around 25 minutes for the loaf pan and about 20 for the muffin tin.
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Cool in the pan: Allow the monkey bread to cool for at least 30 minutes in the pan to set, which will make it easier to remove without falling apart.
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Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar with 1 tablespoon of milk until it forms a thick, smooth paste. If it’s too thick, add more milk by the 1/4 teaspoon until it’s pourable.
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Drizzle and serve: Generously drizzle the glaze over the top of the monkey bread and serve warm for the best experience.
Optional: Sprinkle with more cinnamon sugar for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Gluten Free Monkey Bread
• Choose the Right Flour: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend for the best texture and flavor. Avoid single flours as they may not yield the same results.
• Don’t Skip Xanthan Gum: This ingredient is crucial for achieving a stretchy dough; omitting it can result in a crumbly texture.
• Knead Gently: Knead the dough just until smooth. Over-kneading can lead to a tough monkey bread, which no one wants!
• Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different. Check your bread a few minutes early to prevent over-baking, especially in muffin tins.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow cooling for at least 30 minutes to ensure the bread holds its shape when you remove it from the pan; this step is essential for perfect presentation.
Embrace these tips for your Gluten Free Monkey Bread, and enjoy a delightful baking experience!
How to Store and Freeze Gluten Free Monkey Bread
Room Temperature: Keep leftover monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its soft texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure it’s in an airtight container, as the cold can dry it out.
Freezer: Freeze individual pieces tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy a quick treat anytime!
Reheating: To reheat, pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy your delightful gluten free monkey bread!
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten Free Monkey Bread bites are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first seven steps, then store the coated dough rounds in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the dough in your prepared pan and let it rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature before baking to ensure they puff up nicely. To maintain their deliciousness, avoid leaving them in the fridge too long; they’re best enjoyed fresh. Bake as directed, and in just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delightful treat without the rush!
Gluten Free Monkey Bread Variations
Feel free to play with flavors to make this monkey bread uniquely yours!
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch in every bite. The added texture elevates the experience, making it even more delightful.
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Fruit Explosion: Add berries or diced apples to the dough for a fruity twist that brightens each mouthful. The sweetness of the fruit complements the cinnamon perfectly, creating a beautiful balance.
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Choco-Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, indulgent surprise. As they melt during baking, they’ll create gooey pockets of chocolate bliss that everyone will adore.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne or nutmeg into the cinnamon sugar mix for a gentle heat that dances on your palate. It’s a delightful way to awaken your taste buds with a new flavor profile.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: Substitute the milk in the glaze with maple syrup for a fragrant, earthy sweetness that adds depth. This enhances the overall aroma and flavor, inviting everyone to indulge a little more.
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Vegan Twist: Use dairy-free yogurt and coconut oil instead of butter to create a completely vegan version without sacrificing taste. The flavors still shine through, proving that delicious can be suitable for all!
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Orange Zest: Grate some fresh orange zest into the dough or the glaze for a zesty lift that brightens the flavors. This fresh note brings vibrancy and makes each bite feel even more special.
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle pre-made caramel sauce throughout the monkey bread layers before baking for a decadent, gooey addition. This sweet surprise turns your treat into an extravaganza that guests will rave about!
Take a moment to explore these variations, and make this Gluten Free Monkey Bread a fun and personalized treat!
What to Serve with Gluten Free Monkey Bread?
There’s something truly magical about creating a cozy meal that complements the inviting aroma and flavors of this delightful treat.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite brew enhances the comforting experience, allowing the cinnamon flavors to shine through beautifully.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a vibrant contrast to the sweet, sticky monkey bread, making each bite delightful.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layers of creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey introduce a tartness that balances the sweetness of the bread perfectly.
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Nut Butter Spread: A dollop of almond or peanut butter brings a nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon sugar, creating a satisfying treat.
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Dark Chocolate Drizzle: For an indulgent twist, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over the bread. The rich, slightly bitter chocolate complements the sweet notes beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving warm slices alongside creamy vanilla ice cream creates a heavenly dessert experience that everyone will love.
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Milk: Don’t underestimate the classic pairing of cold milk. It’s a simple yet satisfying choice, enhancing the nostalgic vibes of your monkey bread.
Embrace these pairing ideas to elevate your next gathering, making it a picturesque experience that everyone will cherish!
Gluten Free Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of gluten free flour is best for this recipe?
I recommend using a high-quality gluten-free flour blend for the best results. These blends often contain a mix of various flours and starches, providing the necessary structure and flavor. Stay away from single flour types, like almond or coconut, as they may not yield the same delightful texture.
How should I store leftover gluten free monkey bread?
Store any leftover monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it soft and delicious. If you don’t plan on finishing it in that time, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to 1 week. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze gluten free monkey bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them directly from the freezer for a quick treat!
What’s the best way to reheat gluten free monkey bread?
For the perfect warm-up, pop the monkey bread in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. If you prefer to use the oven, preheat it to 350°F and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This reheat method helps to preserve its lovely texture.
Are there any allergens I should be aware of?
This recipe contains dairy (Greek yogurt and butter) and can easily be adapted for dairy-free preferences by substituting with dairy-free yogurt and margarine. Always double-check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern. Enjoy your gluten free monkey bread safely!
Irresistible Gluten Free Monkey Bread for Cozy Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a loaf pan or muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum, baking powder, and kosher salt.
- Add Greek yogurt and 3 tablespoons of lukewarm water to the dry mix, stir to combine.
- Knead the dough gently on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a rectangle about 1-inch thick.
- Cut out dough rounds using a small cookie cutter.
- In a deep bowl, mix granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Dip each round of dough in melted butter, then toss in the cinnamon sugar mix until coated.
- Place the coated pieces into the prepared pan, snug but not tightly packed.
- Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 25 minutes for loaf and 20 minutes for muffin tin.
- Allow to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes.
- Mix confectioners’ sugar with 1 tablespoon of milk to make the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the monkey bread and serve warm.