As the leaves begin to crisp and the evenings turn cool, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen. I discovered this delightful Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread during a cozy weekend baking session, and it quickly became a seasonal favorite in my home. Imagine soft, fluffy biscuits coated in a cinnamon-sugar mix, swirled with real pumpkin puree, and baked to gooey perfection.
This recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser—perfect for brunch with friends, breakfast on a lazy Sunday, or as a sweet treat to share at gatherings. Plus, you can easily customize it with nuts, chocolate chips, or apples to amp up the flavors. So gather your loved ones, indulge in the magic of fall, and let’s dive into this deliciously simple pumpkin spice monkey bread that’s bound to become a cherished part of your autumn traditions!
Why is Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread a must-try?
Comforting, cozy flavors: This recipe captures the essence of fall with its warm pumpkin spice and gooey caramelized edges.
Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delectable treat—perfect for bakers of any skill level!
Customizable options: Add your favorite nuts, chocolate chips, or apples for a personal twist that fits your taste.
Perfect for sharing: This pull-apart bread is ideal for gatherings, making it a delightful centerpiece for any brunch or family feast.
Time-saving: Utilizing pre-made dough cuts down on prep time while still delivering homemade goodness.
Alluring aroma: The inviting scent that fills your home while it bakes is just as rewarding as the final delicious result!
Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread Ingredients
For the Dough
• Pillsbury Grands! Homestyle Biscuits – This fluffy base makes the monkey bread easy to prepare; feel free to switch to homemade sweet dough for a more traditional approach.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the flavor of your pumpkin spice monkey bread.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Brings that warm, soul-soothing fall essence to the mix; it’s a must-have for that cozy vibe.
• Ground Cinnamon – Amplifies the warm spice profile, making each bite a delightful experience.
• Unsalted Butter – Melting it binds the ingredients together while adding a rich depth to the flavor.
• Pumpkin Puree – Ensures the bread stays moist and flavorful; always use 100% pure puree, not the filling.
• Brown Sugar – Packed for extra moisture and depth, elevating the overall taste profile.
Optional Add-Ins
• Chopped Pecans/Walnuts – Toasted nuts provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the soft texture.
• Chocolate Chips – Semi-sweet or milk chocolate adds delightful sweetness; these are perfect for chocolate lovers!
• Chopped Apples – Adds freshness and a slight tartness to balance the sweetness; finely chop for the best distribution.
Glaze Options
• Cream Cheese Glaze – A tangy contrast to the sweetness, this glaze adds a rich finish.
• Maple Glaze – A sweet, syrupy delight that makes the whole dish even more special; drizzle generously!
Indulge in the warm flavors of this Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread, and let every bite encapsulate the essence of fall!
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread
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Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 12-cup Bundt pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to ensure your delicious monkey bread releases easily.
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Sugar Coating: Cut the biscuits into quarters and place them in a large ziplock bag. Combine the granulated sugar with pumpkin pie spice and ground cinnamon, then shake the bag until the biscuit pieces are well coated.
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Pumpkin Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, pumpkin puree, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This flavorful sauce will infuse your monkey bread with delicious pumpkin goodness.
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Layering: Scatter half of the sugar-coated biscuit pieces in the prepared Bundt pan. If you like, sprinkle in some chopped nuts or apples for added texture. Add the remaining biscuit pieces on top, then pour the pumpkin mixture evenly over everything.
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Bake: Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and bubbling edges as signs of doneness. To ensure it’s cooked through, gently pull apart some center pieces to check.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the monkey bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a serving plate. For an extra touch, drizzle your choice of glaze over the top right before serving.
Optional: Serve warm with a side of coffee or hot cider for that perfect fall experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can mix the sugar-coated biscuit pieces and layer them in the Bundt pan up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. To maintain the quality and flavor, store your pumpkin mixture separately and pour it over the biscuits right before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat your oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. This way, you’ll delight in a gooey, irresistible monkey bread with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread
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Grease Thoroughly: Ensure you generously grease the Bundt pan to prevent any sticky disasters. A well-prepared pan is essential for an easy release.
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Cool Before Serving: Allow your monkey bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This waiting period helps it set, making it easier to flip without any messy breaks.
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Prep Ahead of Time: For quicker assembly, you can prepare the biscuit pieces and sauce the night before. Just refrigerate and add a few extra minutes to the baking time in the morning.
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Pour Evenly: When adding the pumpkin sauce, pour slowly and evenly over all biscuit pieces to ensure complete coverage and avoid pooling in the bottom.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to mix in different nuts or fruits! Elevate your Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread with creatively chosen add-ins for a unique twist.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread?
This delightful pull-apart treat pairs perfectly with a variety of comforting sides and beverages for a complete autumn feast.
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Hot Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances the warmth of the pumpkin flavors, making it a perfect companion for breakfast or brunch.
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Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider brings out the seasonal vibe, complementing the pumpkin spice and adding a cozy touch to your gathering.
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Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the monkey bread, adding a nice texture and balance.
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Maple Bacon: The crispy, salty bite of maple bacon harmonizes beautifully with the sweet, soft bread, creating an unforgettable flavor contrast.
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Whipped Cream: Light whipped cream drizzled over the top makes each bite even more indulgent, adding a luxurious touch to your servings.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds a bright, refreshing element to your meal, balancing the richness of the pumpkin spice.
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Chocolate Milk: For a fun and nostalgic pairing, serve chilled chocolate milk; its sweetness is a delightful match for the spiced bread.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A warm slice topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates an irresistible dessert experience, perfect for cozy evenings.
Indulge in these tasty pairings and elevate your Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread experience to new heights!
Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful recipe with these fun ideas!
- Fruit Swap: Replace chopped apples with diced pears or dried cranberries for a unique flavor burst. Each fruit adds its own special sweetness, ensuring every bite is memorable.
- Nut Options: Use different nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts to personalize the crunch factor. Each nut variety brings a distinct taste, allowing you to craft your monkey bread to your preference.
- Chocolate Lava: Substitute white chocolate chips or even butterscotch chips for a decadent twist. These sweet additions melt beautifully, creating gooey pockets of goodness throughout.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that compliments the sweet pumpkin flavors. This unexpected twist delights your taste buds, giving you that perfect contrast.
- Glaze Ideas: Swap the cream cheese glaze for a chocolate ganache or a simple vanilla glaze for variety. Each glaze lends a different flavor profile, elevating your pumpkin spice experience.
- Savory Delight: Add crumbled bacon bits along with the nuts for a sweet and savory treat. The crispy, salty bites harmonize wonderfully with the pumpkin sweetness, making a unique combo everyone will love.
- Cocoa Infusion: Mix in a spoonful of cocoa powder to the dough for a rich chocolate twist. Imagine the fusion of flavors as chocolate mingles with pumpkin spice—pure bliss!
- Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk alternative. This way, you can still enjoy a fluffy, moist monkey bread that’s friendly to vegan diets.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread
Room Temperature: Store leftover monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its soft texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the pumpkin spice monkey bread in the refrigerator, where it lasts up to 5 days, though it may become slightly firmer.
Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Enjoy warm by placing slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For a crispy finish, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not the canned pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that may alter the recipe’s intended taste. Look for labels that say “pure pumpkin” for authentic results!
How long can I store leftover monkey bread?
Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need it to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly change its texture, making it firmer but still delicious.
Can I freeze pumpkin spice monkey bread? If so, how?
Very! To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to squeeze out any excess air. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw slices overnight in the fridge, then reheat them in the microwave or oven to regain that fresh-baked goodness.
What if my monkey bread is too sticky or dense?
If you find your monkey bread is sticky or dense after baking, it might be that the Bundt pan wasn’t well-greased, causing it to stick. Make sure to grease the pan very thoroughly next time. Additionally, ensure you’re not overpacking the biscuit pieces, as they need space to expand and rise during baking.
Is this recipe safe for pets?
Unfortunately, while pumpkin itself is generally safe for dogs in moderation, the sugar and spices in this monkey bread can be harmful to pets. It’s best to avoid sharing leftovers with your furry friends to ensure their health and safety.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To create a gluten-free version of Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread, substitute the Pillsbury Grands! biscuits with gluten-free biscuit dough. There are many great options available that mimic the texture, so you won’t miss the gluten in this delightful fall treat!
Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread: A Heartwarming Fall Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your 12-cup Bundt pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the biscuits into quarters and place them in a large ziplock bag. Combine the granulated sugar with pumpkin pie spice and ground cinnamon, then shake the bag until the biscuit pieces are well coated.
- In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, pumpkin puree, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Scatter half of the sugar-coated biscuit pieces in the Bundt pan. Add optional chopped nuts or apples if desired, then layer the remaining biscuit pieces and pour the pumpkin mixture over everything.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Check for doneness by pulling apart center pieces.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. Drizzle your choice of glaze on top before serving.