Blueberry Monkey Bread

Blueberry Monkey Bread is a delightful pull-apart treat that combines soft, buttery dough with a sweet and tangy blueberry sauce. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack, this recipe features the irresistible combination of fresh blueberries and a creamy glaze. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, Blueberry Monkey Bread is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even novice bakers can whip up this delicious treat with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Versatile Delight: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this monkey bread fits perfectly into any occasion.
• Mouthwatering Flavor: The blend of fresh blueberries and cinnamon creates a unique taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Pull-Apart Fun: Enjoy the interactive experience of pulling apart soft pieces of bread for a fun family-friendly treat!
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or add-ins to make this recipe your own.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Blueberry Monkey Bread successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking pan (Bundt or round)
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all your ingredients without mess.
• Baking pan: The right baking pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect pull-apart texture.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• ¾ cup (184 g) whole milk, (heated to 110°F)
• ½ cup water, (heated to 110°F)
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, (melted)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 3 ¼ cups (406 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

For the Blueberry Filling

• 2 cups (296 g) fresh blueberries, (divided)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cold water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 pinch kosher salt

For the Coating

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, (melted)
• 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, (packed)
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

• 4 ounces (½ package) cream cheese, (softened)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, (softened)
• ⅔ cup (83 g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tablespoon whole milk, (or more as needed for desired consistency)

How to Make Blueberry Monkey Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine the warm milk, water, sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the yeast, allowing it to bloom for about 5 minutes. Add flour and salt gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, roughly 1 hour.

Step 3: Make the Blueberry Filling

In another bowl, mix half of the blueberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, cold water, lemon juice, and kosher salt. Set aside while the dough rises.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

After rising, punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle. Cut it into small pieces about an inch wide. Dip each piece in melted butter before rolling them in a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 5: Assemble the Bread

Layer half of the dough pieces in your greased baking pan. Spread half of the blueberry mixture over them. Repeat with remaining dough pieces and blueberries.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 40 minutes or until golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling with cream cheese glaze.

Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Glaze

In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and whole milk until desired consistency is reached. Drizzle over warm monkey bread before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Blueberry Monkey Bread!

How to Serve Blueberry Monkey Bread

Blueberry Monkey Bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a sweet snack, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

For Breakfast

• Pair with fresh fruit for a refreshing start to your day.
• Serve alongside scrambled eggs for a balanced meal.

As a Dessert

• Drizzle with extra cream cheese glaze to elevate the sweetness.
• Top with whipped cream and fresh blueberries for an added touch.

For Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy it warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Slice and serve with yogurt for a delightful combo.

At Parties

• Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing.
• Present on a platter with an assortment of dips like chocolate or caramel sauce.

How to Perfect Blueberry Monkey Bread

Achieving the perfect Blueberry Monkey Bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh blueberries – Fresh berries provide the best flavor and texture. Frozen blueberries can become mushy during baking.
• Don’t rush the dough – Allow the dough to rise properly, which helps create light and fluffy bread.
• Adjust baking time – Keep an eye on your bread while baking; every oven is different. Check for golden-brown color and use a toothpick to test doneness.
• Let it cool slightly – Allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to pull apart.
• Experiment with flavors – Add lemon zest or vanilla extract to the dough for an extra flavor boost that complements the blueberries.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Monkey Bread

Blueberry Monkey Bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider these options to complete your meal.

1. Greek Yogurt – Creamy and tangy, yogurt balances out the sweetness of the bread. Top with honey or nuts if desired.
2. Bacon – The salty crunch of bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweet bread, making it an excellent addition.
3. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
4. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy eggs provide protein and make for a hearty breakfast when enjoyed together.
5. Coffee Cake – For those who love sweet treats, pairing with coffee cake creates a delightful brunch experience.
6. Smoothie – A refreshing fruit smoothie can complement the richness of the monkey bread nicely, providing hydration and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blueberry Monkey Bread, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect yeast temperature: Using water or milk that is too hot or too cold can kill the yeast. Always ensure liquids are heated to 110°F for optimal results.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading the dough too much can lead to a tough texture. Mix until just combined for soft and fluffy bread.
• Skipping the rise time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for a light and airy texture. Be patient and let it double in size.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using inaccurate measurements can alter the recipe’s outcome. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring the blueberry sauce: Overcooking or undercooking the blueberry sauce can impact flavor. Cook until thickened but keep it pourable.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Blueberry Monkey Bread in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Blueberry Monkey Bread

• Wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• It will maintain quality for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Blueberry Monkey Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat slices on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Blueberry Monkey Bread with these frequently asked questions.

How do I know when my Blueberry Monkey Bread is done?

The bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and springs back when gently pressed.

Can I use frozen blueberries in my Blueberry Monkey Bread?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries; just don’t thaw them before adding them to your dough.

What should I do if my Blueberry Monkey Bread is too dry?

If your bread turns out dry, try adding more butter into your glaze or serve with whipped cream or yogurt for added moisture.

Can I customize my Blueberry Monkey Bread?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, other fruits, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Blueberry Monkey Bread is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or snacks throughout the day. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients! Give this recipe a try and enjoy its sweet, tangy goodness warm or cold!