Blueberry Monkey Bread

Blueberry Monkey Bread is a delightful pull-apart treat that perfectly combines soft, buttery dough with a sweet and tangy blueberry sauce. This recipe is ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a snack at any time of the day! Whether served warm or cold, Blueberry Monkey Bread will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this monkey bread comes together effortlessly.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it as a sweet breakfast, an indulgent dessert, or a delightful snack throughout the day.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of blueberries and cinnamon adds a burst of flavor in every bite, making it irresistible.
• Impressive Presentation: This pull-apart bread not only tastes great but also looks stunning on any table setting.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Great for sharing! Kids and adults alike can enjoy pulling apart their own pieces.

Tools and Preparation

To make Blueberry Monkey Bread successfully, having the right tools is essential. Below are the must-have items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Baking dish
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine your dough ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement is crucial for baking; using proper measuring tools ensures consistent results.
• Whisk: A whisk helps to blend liquids smoothly, especially when combining yeast with warm milk and water.
• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when removing hot dishes from the oven; safety first in the kitchen!

Ingredients

For this delicious Blueberry Monkey Bread, gather the following 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 Sauce

• 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 Topping

• 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

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the heated milk, water, melted butter, and granulated sugar.
2. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
3. In another bowl, mix together the flour and kosher salt.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Let It Rise

1. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
2. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare Blueberry Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine half of the blueberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, cold water, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Cook until thickened and bubbly; remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble Monkey Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out your risen dough into small balls.
3. Dip each ball into melted butter before rolling them in cinnamon-sugar mixture.
4. Layer half of the dough balls in your greased baking dish; top with blueberry sauce and remaining blueberries; finish layering with remaining dough balls on top.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake for 30–40 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Allow cooling slightly before drizzling with cream cheese glaze.

Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Glaze

1. In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar while mixing; adjust consistency with whole milk as needed.

Enjoy your homemade Blueberry Monkey Bread warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Blueberry Monkey Bread

Blueberry Monkey Bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, there are plenty of options to elevate your experience.

For Breakfast

• Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit to complement the sweet blueberry flavor.
• Pair with yogurt or cottage cheese for added protein and creaminess.

As a Snack

• Enjoy pieces on their own for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
• Add a cup of coffee or tea to create a cozy break during your day.

For Dessert

• Drizzle with extra cream cheese glaze for an indulgent finish.
• Top with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent treat.

At Gatherings

• Present on a large platter for guests to pull apart and share.
• Offer alongside other baked goods for a delightful brunch spread.

How to Perfect Blueberry Monkey Bread

To ensure your Blueberry Monkey Bread is always a hit, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh blueberries: Fresh fruit enhances the flavor and texture of the bread compared to frozen berries.
• Let the dough rise: Allow the dough ample time to rise; this will result in lighter, fluffier bread.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the oven while baking; overcooking can lead to dry bread.
• Cool slightly before serving: Letting it rest for about 10 minutes prevents burns and makes it easier to pull apart.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or allspice alongside cinnamon for an extra flavor dimension.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Monkey Bread

Pairing side dishes with Blueberry Monkey Bread can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy and tangy contrast that complements the sweetness perfectly.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the flavors.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy eggs provide protein, making it an ideal breakfast combo.
4. Maple Syrup: A drizzle brings out the sweetness of the bread even more.
5. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter adds richness and depth to each bite.
6. Smoothies: A berry smoothie pairs well, creating a fruity theme throughout your meal.

These suggestions will help you create a well-rounded dining experience when serving Blueberry Monkey Bread!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blueberry Monkey Bread, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Using incorrect measurements can lead to inconsistent dough. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise amounts.

• Ignoring yeast activation – If the yeast isn’t activated properly, your bread won’t rise. Make sure your liquids are warm but not hot, and let the yeast sit until foamy.

• Skipping the resting time – Allowing dough to rest is crucial for texture. Don’t rush the process; let it rise until doubled in size for the best results.

• Overloading with blueberries – While blueberries add flavor, too many can make the bread soggy. Stick to the recipe’s amount for perfect balance.

• Not preheating the oven – A preheated oven ensures even baking. Make sure your oven reaches the right temperature before placing your Blueberry Monkey Bread inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Blueberry Monkey Bread can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Blueberry Monkey Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Blueberry Monkey Bread

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bread on a baking sheet and cover with foil, heating for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave – Warm individual pieces on low power in 10-15 second intervals until heated through.

• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering with a lid for a few minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Blueberry Monkey Bread that may help you while preparing this delicious treat.

Can I use frozen blueberries for Blueberry Monkey Bread?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the dough.

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

The bread is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

What variations can I try with Blueberry Monkey Bread?

You can add different fruits like raspberries or strawberries or incorporate nuts for added crunch!

Can I prepare Blueberry Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the point of baking and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.

Final Thoughts

Blueberry Monkey Bread is an irresistible treat that’s versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or a snack at any time. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or spices according to your preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy its soft texture and sweet flavors!