Name: Delicious Blueberry Monkey Bread with Irresistible Icing
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Warm Milk (Any type of milk works (1%, 2%, whole)); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (Ensure it’s fresh); 2 tablespoons Honey or Brown Sugar (Maple syrup can be substituted); 4 tablespoons Salted Butter (Can use unsalted if preferred); 2 large Large Eggs (No substitution recommended); 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (For a chewier texture, use bread flour); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Can replace with coconut or granulated sugar); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon; 1/2 cup Blueberry Jam (Can substitute with any berry jam); 1 cup Fresh or Frozen Blueberries; 4 ounces Cream Cheese (No substitutions recommended); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

As the sun shines brighter and fresh berries beckon from market stalls, I can’t help but think, “What’s better than a soft, gooey warm treat filled with seasonal flavors?” That’s when I whip up my favorite Easy Blueberry Monkey Bread. This delightful recipe takes traditional monkey bread to new heights, with fluffy dough balls that embrace sweet blueberry jam and a warm brown butter icing that glistens like sunshine. Not only is this dish perfect for gatherings—think Mother’s Day or lazy Sunday brunches—but it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it a go-to for those bustling mornings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious novice, I promise this crowd-pleaser will become an irresistible part of your repertoire. What’s your favorite way to enjoy fresh blueberries?

Why Is Blueberry Monkey Bread So Appealing?

Irresistible sweetness: The warm brown butter icing perfectly complements the tangy blueberry jam, creating a delightful balance.

Crowd favorite: Perfect for brunches or family gatherings, this dish impresses everyone, making it a must-have recipe.

Effortless preparation: Ease into baking with a simple method that yields stunning results—ideal for beginners and busy home chefs alike.

Seasonal delight: Fresh blueberries elevate the dish, making it a delicious way to savor spring and summer flavors.

Versatile options: Feel free to swap in your favorite berries or nuts for a unique twist; the possibilities are endless!

Blueberry Monkey Bread Ingredients

Experience the magic of homemade Blueberry Monkey Bread with these simple ingredients!

For the Dough
Warm Milk – Activates the yeast for proper dough rise; any milk type works (1%, 2%, whole).
Active Dry Yeast – Key for leavening, ensuring a light and fluffy dough; make sure it’s fresh!
Honey or Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and aids yeast activation; you can substitute with maple syrup.
Salted Butter – Adds richness to the dough and is perfect for greasing; feel free to use unsalted butter if you prefer.
Large Eggs – Contributes to dough structure and moisture; no substitution recommended.
All-Purpose Flour – Main structure of the bread; for a chewier texture, use bread flour instead.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor balance in the dough.
For the Filling
Brown Sugar – Used for sweetening the cinnamon sugar mix; could replace with coconut or granulated sugar.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm, flavorful touch.
Blueberry Jam – Key for flavoring and moisture of the bread; feel free to substitute with any berry jam.
Fresh or Frozen Blueberries – Provides a burst of fresh taste and texture; frozen berries also work great!
For the Icing
Cream Cheese – Acts as a creamy base for the icing; no substitutions recommended.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the icing, ensuring a smooth consistency.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a fragrant note to your delicious icing.

Every delightful bite of your Blueberry Monkey Bread is sure to bring joy to your brunch table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Blueberry Monkey Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a stand mixer, combine 1 cup of warm milk, 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 2 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and frothy, indicating the yeast is active. This step is crucial for creating the light and fluffy texture of your Easy Blueberry Monkey Bread.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Once the yeast is activated, add in 4 tablespoons of melted salted butter, 2 large eggs, 4 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Using the dough hook attachment, knead the mixture on medium speed for about 4 minutes until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be elastic but not sticky, ready for its rise.

Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise at room temperature for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. Keeping the dough in a warm, draft-free area will give the yeast time to work its magic for the perfect texture in your Blueberry Monkey Bread.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a bundt pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar mix that will coat the dough balls.

Step 5: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air and divide it into 28 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then dip half in melted butter and coat in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Layer the coated dough balls in the bundt pan, adding spoonfuls of blueberry jam and fresh blueberries in between layers to create delightful pockets of flavor.

Step 6: Layer and Rest
Continue layering the remaining dough balls, repeating the process with the melted butter and cinnamon sugar. Once finished, let the assembled Blueberry Monkey Bread rest for 20 minutes at room temperature. This final rise helps ensure each piece bakes perfectly soft and gooey.

Step 7: Bake
Place the bundt pan into the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your monkey bread is ready. If the top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.

Step 8: Cool and Invert
After baking, remove the Blueberry Monkey Bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert the bundt onto a serving plate, letting the glorious layers of gooey blueberry jam and cinnamon sugar showcase their beauty while you prepare the icing.

Step 9: Make the Icing
In a small saucepan, brown 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, swirling occasionally until golden and fragrant. In a bowl, whisk together the browned butter with 4 ounces of cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. The icing should be creamy and pourable, ready to drizzle over the warm monkey bread.

Step 10: Drizzle and Serve
Finally, drizzle the warm brown butter icing generously over the top of the Easy Blueberry Monkey Bread, allowing it to seep into the nooks and crannies. Serve warm, and watch as your guests are enchanted by this beautiful and aromatic treat!

How to Store and Freeze Blueberry Monkey Bread

Room Temperature: Keep any leftover Blueberry Monkey Bread covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its soft texture and flavor.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.

Freezer: This delicious monkey bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow the bread to thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its fluffy texture.

Expert Tips for Blueberry Monkey Bread

Test the Yeast: Ensure your yeast is activated by checking for bubbles within 5-10 minutes after mixing with warm milk and sugar; old yeast won’t rise properly.
Precise Measurements: Measure flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method to prevent using too much, which can result in a dense dough for your blueberry monkey bread.
Watch the Oven: Monitor the baking time closely. If the top browns too quickly, use aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while ensuring it bakes through perfectly.
Cooling Time: Allow the monkey bread to cool slightly before inverting it out of the pan; this helps maintain its shape and ensures gooey layers remain intact.
Variable Icing Temperature: For a smoother icing, let the browned butter cool just a bit before mixing; if it’s too hot, it may separate and won’t drizzle nicely.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Blueberry Monkey Bread treats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator after the first rise. Simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent browning. You can also assemble the dough balls in the bundt pan, layering them with jam and blueberries ahead of time. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, let the assembled monkey bread come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking, ensuring it bakes just as deliciously as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Easy Blueberry Monkey Bread

There’s nothing quite like setting the table for a delightful gathering with bites that brighten your brunch experience.

Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon pairs beautifully with the sweet blueberry notes, adding a pleasing contrast that everyone will love.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits refreshes the palate and complements the richness of the monkey bread, making every bite feel light and vibrant.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, a yogurt parfait adds creaminess and texture, offering a wholesome, delightful balance to your brunch spread.
Iced Coffee or Chai Tea: A refreshing iced coffee or spiced chai perfectly accompanies the warm, sweet flavors of blueberry monkey bread, creating a cozy, invigorating pairing.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream crowns the monkey bread beautifully, amplifying its sweetness while adding a decadent touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a special treat, serve warm monkey bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the melting creaminess takes indulgence to another level.

Blueberry Monkey Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Blueberry Monkey Bread and explore these delightful variations!

Berry Blast: Substitute blueberries with raspberries or chopped strawberries for a refreshing twist. Each bite will burst with the vibrant flavor of your chosen berry!
Nutty Addition: Add nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch. This not only enhances texture but also gives a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
Spiced Delight: Infuse the cinnamon with nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, spiced twist. This would elevate the flavor profile and add extra warmth, making each piece even more comforting.
Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk and a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version. You can still achieve that fluffy dough without sacrificing taste!
Vegan Option: Swap eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) and use a dairy-free milk. Your vegan friends will love this treat just as much!
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It helps keep the texture light and fluffy while catering to those with gluten sensitivities.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce between the layers of dough balls for a decadent twist. This will create a gooey, sweet indulgence that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon sugar mix for a slight heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet berries. Perfect for those who love a bit of spice!

You might also want to venture into some quick fix ideas, such as using a store-bought dough. It can save you time when you’re in a hurry yet still craving that sweet indulgence. Enjoy customizing your Blueberry Monkey Bread to make it uniquely yours!

Easy Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe blueberries?
Absolutely! Look for blueberries that are deep blue in color, with a silvery bloom on their surface. Avoid any with dark spots or bruising, as these may not be as sweet or fresh. If you’re using frozen blueberries, ensure they are free from ice crystals, which can indicate freezer burn.

What is the best way to store leftover Blueberry Monkey Bread?
The more the merrier when it comes to storage! Keep any leftover Blueberry Monkey Bread covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. If you want to indulge later, freezing is an option; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.

How do I freeze Blueberry Monkey Bread effectively?
Absolutely! To freeze your monkey bread, first assemble it up until the step before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil, then place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the wrapped pan to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking as instructed, adding about 5-10 minutes to your baking time if needed.

What should I do if the dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast. Ensure the yeast is fresh by checking the expiration date. If it doesn’t bubble after 5-10 minutes of mixing with warm milk, it’s best to start over with newer yeast. Also, make sure the dough is in a warm, draft-free place while it rises.

Can pets eat Blueberry Monkey Bread?
No, it’s best to keep Blueberry Monkey Bread away from pets. While blueberries are safe for dogs in moderation, this recipe contains ingredients like honey and cream cheese, which may not be suitable for pets. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about specific foods for your furry friends.

What are good alternatives for allergies?
Of course! If you have allergies, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, which works wonderfully. For egg allergies, flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes) can be used in place of large eggs. Additionally, if you’re avoiding dairy, there are plant-based cream cheese and butter alternatives that can work in this recipe.