Hey there, fellow baking enthusiast! If you’ve found yourself daydreaming about the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen or the joy of pulling warm, pull-apart pastries from the oven, you’re in for a treat! Today, we are diving into the world of Sourdough Monkey Bread. This fluffy, indulgent bread is not only a visual masterpiece but also a flavor-packed delight that will crave all your senses. Whether you’re having brunch with friends or treating yourself to a sweet snack, this recipe is going to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Monkey Bread

So, what makes this Sourdough Monkey Bread so special? First, let’s talk about texture. Each little piece of dough is buttery and soft, coated in a sweet, cinnamon sugar mixture that offers the perfect bite. The sourdough starter adds a unique tang that balances the sweetness, giving you a flavor profile unlike any other monkey bread you’ve tried. Plus, the hands-on nature of tearing apart pieces makes it a communal eating experience that brings people together, perfect for family gatherings or leisurely weekends.

Additionally, using a sourdough starter means you get to enjoy the health benefits of fermentation. It’s easier to digest, can enhance nutrient absorption, and is lower in gluten compared to traditional bread. You’ll find that it’s not just a treat; it’s a lovingly crafted experience that nourishes both the body and soul.

Delicious Sourdough Monkey Bread served on a plate with honey drizzle.

How to Make Sourdough Monkey Bread

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for this irresistible Sourdough Monkey Bread. Don’t worry if you’re new to baking; this method is designed to be approachable and fun!

Ingredients

200 g filtered water
85 g sourdough starter, active and bubbly
70 g cane sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
8 g sea salt
430 g bread flour
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature (about 113 g)
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon whole milk

Directions

Mix the Dough: Combine the filtered water and sourdough starter in a large mixing bowl. Add the cane sugar, egg, and sea salt, and stir until combined.
Strengthen the Dough: Gradually mix in the bread flour, forming a rough dough. As it comes together, knead in the room temperature butter until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Bulk Fermentation: Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 4–6 hours or until it doubles in size.
Shape and Coat the Dough: Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently divide it into small pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and coat them with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.
Second Rise: Place the coated dough balls into a greased bundt pan, arranging them as evenly as possible. Allow the dough to rise again for about 1–2 hours, until puffed.
Bake and Frost: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the monkey bread for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown. While it’s baking, make the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and whole milk. Once the bread has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it soak into the warm bread.

How to Serve Sourdough Monkey Bread

Serving this delicious Sourdough Monkey Bread is easy and fun! The best way to present it is still warm from the oven, glistening with that sweet glaze. Place the bundt pan in the center of your table and let everyone dive in. You can also pair it with a side of fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

If you’re hosting a brunch, try serving it with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. Let your guests pull apart their pieces, savoring the warm, gooey middle. It’s a wonderful way to create moments of connection and conversation.

Keeping Your Sourdough Monkey Bread Fresh

You might not have any leftovers after serving this delightful bread, but just in case, here are some storage tips! Allow the monkey bread to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider placing it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freezing it for up to 3 months. If you freeze it, make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Expert Tips for Perfect Sourdough Monkey Bread

To ensure your Sourdough Monkey Bread turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Active Starter: Use a bubbly and active sourdough starter for the best rise and flavor. Feed it the night before making the bread to get it nice and lively.
Temperature Matters: Control the temperature of your ingredients, especially the butter and egg. Room temperature ingredients create a smoother dough.
Customize the Spice: Feel free to customize the spices in the sugar coating! Add nutmeg, cardamom, or even a hint of ginger for a unique twist.

Delicious Variations of Sourdough Monkey Bread

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations to try:

Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough or sprinkle them between the layers for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add chocolate chips to the dough or sprinkle cocoa powder into the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a deliciously decadent treat.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped apples for a fruity touch that brightens up the flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes! All-purpose flour works nicely in this recipe, though bread flour typically yields a chewier texture.

2. How can I make the monkey bread gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

3. What can I do if my dough didn’t rise?
If your dough didn’t rise properly, it could be due to an inactive sourdough starter or the room being too cold. Make sure to check the activity of your starter next time and place the dough in a warmer environment for rising.

Now that you have this delightful Sourdough Monkey Bread in your baking repertoire, you’ll be ready to fill your home with sweet aromas and create lasting memories around the table. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the joy of baking!