Name: Mouthwatering Blueberry Monkey Bread Made with Homemade Dough
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 185 min
Ingredients: 180 ml Whole Milk (Activates yeast when heated; non-dairy milk can be swapped for a vegan option.); 120 ml Water (Helps hydrate the dough; can be replaced with more milk if desired.); 49 g Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness and nourishes the yeast; try a sugar alternative if necessary.); 28 g Butter, melted (Infuses richness; feel free to use plant-based butter instead.); 113 g Butter, for soaking (Infuses richness; feel free to use plant-based butter instead.); 7 g Active Dry Yeast (Vital for dough rising; avoid instant yeast as a substitute in this recipe.); 390 g All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure; a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can work for gluten-free options.); 2 tsp Kosher Salt (Enhances flavor; sea salt is also a good alternative.); 2 cups Blueberries (Bursting with natural sweetness; either fresh or frozen berries will work.); 1/2 tsp Cornstarch (Thickens the blueberry sauce; arrowroot is a suitable substitute.); 1 tsp Lemon Juice (Balances the sweetness; vinegar can act as an alternative.); 198 g Brown Sugar (Adds delightful caramel flavor to the coating; coconut sugar makes an excellent swap.); 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Introduces warming spices.); 1 tsp Cardamom (Introduces warming spices; you can omit if it’s unavailable.); Cream Cheese

A waft of warm, spiced sweetness fills the kitchen as I dive into making my favorite treat: Blueberry Monkey Bread. This delightful recipe takes a classic and gives it a homemade twist, utilizing fresh dough instead of canned biscuits. With each pull-apart bite, you’re met with a tender texture and a burst of juicy blueberries, making this a perfect indulgence for any occasion. The best part? It’s not only a showstopper but also incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring you can serve up a memorable breakfast or sweet ending to any meal without a fuss. Plus, the irresistible cream cheese glaze adds a touch of decadence that makes every piece sing. Are you ready to elevate your brunch game and wow your loved ones? Let’s jump into the magic of making this Blueberry Monkey Bread together!

What Makes This Blueberry Monkey Bread Special?

Homemade Dough: This recipe shines with its use of fresh, homemade dough—no more canned biscuits in sight!
Luscious Blueberries: Bursting with juicy blueberries, each bite offers a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiced brown sugar coating.
Simple Steps: Despite its impressive appearance, the process is easy to follow, making it a perfect choice for even novice bakers.
Versatile Treat: Serve it warm for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, and watch it disappear at family gatherings.
Decadent Glaze: The cream cheese glaze adds a delightful creaminess, taking the flavor to a whole new level.
Flavorful Twist: Mix in seasonal fruits for a customized twist—raspberries or peaches work great! Get ready to fall in love with this Blueberry Monkey Bread recipe!

Blueberry Monkey Bread Ingredients

Get ready for homemade goodness!

For the Dough
• Whole Milk (180 ml) – Activates yeast when heated; non-dairy milk can be swapped for a vegan option.
• Water (120 ml) – Helps hydrate the dough; can be replaced with more milk if desired.
• Granulated Sugar (49 g + 1 Tbsp) – Adds sweetness and nourishes the yeast; try a sugar alternative if necessary.
• Butter (28 g melted + 113 g for soaking) – Infuses richness; feel free to use plant-based butter instead.
• Active Dry Yeast (7 g) – Vital for dough rising; avoid instant yeast as a substitute in this recipe.
• All-Purpose Flour (390 g) – Provides structure; a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can work for gluten-free options.
• Kosher Salt (2 tsp + pinch) – Enhances flavor; sea salt is also a good alternative.

For the Blueberry Sauce
• Blueberries (2 cups) – Bursting with natural sweetness; either fresh or frozen berries will work.
• Cornstarch (1/2 tsp + dissolved in cold water) – Thickens the blueberry sauce; arrowroot is a suitable substitute.
• Lemon Juice (1 tsp) – Balances the sweetness; vinegar can act as an alternative.

For the Coating
• Brown Sugar (198 g) – Adds delightful caramel flavor to the coating; coconut sugar makes an excellent swap.
• Ground Cinnamon (2 tsp) & Cardamom (1 tsp) – Introduces warming spices; you can omit cardamom if it’s unavailable.

For the Glaze
• Cream Cheese – Creates a luscious drizzle that complements the bread perfectly; add powdered sugar and milk for the right consistency.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blueberry Monkey Bread

Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a mixing bowl, combine warm whole milk, water, and granulated sugar, stirring gently before adding the active dry yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is activated. This step is crucial for achieving a light, airy texture in your Blueberry Monkey Bread.

Step 2: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the melted butter, then blend until the dough starts to come together. Knead the dough by hand for about 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic, ensuring your Blueberry Monkey Bread will have a delightful pull-apart texture.

Step 3: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Set the bowl in a warm environment and let the dough rise undisturbed for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This rise is essential for developing the bread’s fluffy consistency, setting the stage for your scrumptious Blueberry Monkey Bread.

Step 4: Make Blueberry Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, lemon juice, cornstarch dissolved in cold water, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the mixture thickens and the blueberries burst, about 5-7 minutes. Set this luscious sauce aside to cool, as it will be a delightful addition to the layers of your Blueberry Monkey Bread.

Step 5: Shape Bread
Once your dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles and turn it onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into small balls, then roll each ball in a mixture of brown sugar and warming spices. In a greased Bundt pan, layer the dough balls, intermittently drizzling some blueberry sauce between the layers to create pockets of flavor in your Blueberry Monkey Bread.

Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the Bundt pan with a clean towel and let the assembled bread rise for about 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This second rise allows your Blueberry Monkey Bread to expand further, ensuring a soft and luscious outcome. Keep an eye on the dough; it should puff up nicely!

Step 7: Bake
Once preheated, place the Bundt pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top of the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma wafting from your oven will signal that your Blueberry Monkey Bread is nearing completion, filling your kitchen with warmth and sweetness.

Step 8: Finish
Allow the baked Blueberry Monkey Bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving platter. Prepare the cream cheese glaze by mixing softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over your warm monkey bread, adding a delectable finish to your delightful creation.

What to Serve with Decadent Blueberry Monkey Bread

Indulging in warm, gooey monkey bread is delightful, but why not elevate your meal with perfect accompaniments?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture of rich mashed potatoes provides a comforting contrast to the sweet, fruity bread, making each bite a heavenly experience.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful bowl of mixed berries and citrus fruits brightens the table and balances the sweetness of the monkey bread, offering a refreshing, zesty flavor.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and drizzled honey for a healthy, tasty addition. The creaminess of the yogurt pairs beautifully with the rich glaze.
Savory Breakfast Frittata: A fluffy frittata filled with vegetables adds a hearty touch to the breakfast spread, and its savory qualities complement the sweetness of the Blueberry Monkey Bread wonderfully.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, enhances the cozy vibe of your brunch, inviting sips between bites of that soft, cheesy, blueberry goodness.
Maple Pecan Coffee Cake: For a sweet pairing, this coffee cake adds another layer of flavor to your gathering, marrying nutty and sweet notes that resonate with the blueberry theme.

Expert Tips for Blueberry Monkey Bread

Check Yeast Activation: Always ensure your yeast is bubbly and frothy before mixing; inactive yeast can result in dense, unappealing bread.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bread during the baking time. It should be golden brown but remain gooey inside to achieve that perfect texture.
Prepare a Drizzle-Ready Glaze: If your cream cheese glaze becomes too thick, gently heat it to ensure it’s easy to drizzle over the warm Blueberry Monkey Bread.
Roll Perfect Dough Balls: For evenly sized pieces, use a small cookie scoop or a kitchen scale to portion the dough. This ensures uniform baking and a great presentation.
Layering for Flavor: While layering your dough balls, make sure to alternate with the blueberry sauce to maximize flavor in each bite!

Blueberry Monkey Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Blueberry Monkey Bread with these fun variations that add your unique flair!

Vegan Twist: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and use plant-based butter for a delicious vegan twist.
This option allows everyone to enjoy this treat without compromising on flavor or texture.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Your family won’t even notice the difference in taste, making it an inclusive dessert choice!
Fruity Alternatives: Experiment with seasonal fruits like raspberries, peaches, or even cherries for a delightful variation on the classic.
Each fruit provides its unique burst of flavor, keeping your monkey bread exciting and seasonal!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a warm crunch that complements the soft bread nicely.
These added textures create a delightful contrast that elevates each pull-apart piece!
Chocolate Bliss: Toss in some mini chocolate chips for a decadent chocolatey flavor that pairs well with blueberries.
Every bite will be a delightful surprise, perfect for chocolate lovers!
Lemon Zing: Replace the cream cheese glaze with a tangy lemon glaze for a bright, refreshing counterpart to the sweetness.
The citrus notes brighten up the dish and are perfect for those who love a bit of zest!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the dough for a surprising spicy note that plays beautifully with the sweetness.
A little heat can make all the difference, adding an exciting depth of flavor.
Stuffed Bites: Consider stuffing some dough balls with cream cheese or flavored ricotta for an indulgent twist.
This extra layer of creamy goodness brings an unexpected surprise in every chewy bite!

With these variations, there’s no limit to how you can savor your Blueberry Monkey Bread. Enjoy exploring these twists, and don’t forget to check out more delicious recipes like Fudgy Strawberry Shortcake Brownies for even more sweet inspiration!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Blueberry Monkey Bread ahead of time is a game-changer for busy schedules! You can make the dough and let it rise up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the dough preparation steps, then place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it well, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature and rise again for about 30 minutes before shaping your bread. Additionally, the blueberry sauce can be cooked up to 3 days in advance—store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat slightly before layering it with the dough. This way, you’ll still achieve that deliciously gooey texture and flavor in your Blueberry Monkey Bread without the rush!

How to Store and Freeze Blueberry Monkey Bread

Room Temperature: Store the monkey bread covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its lovely texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week in an airtight container. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to retain moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled Blueberry Monkey Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best results.

Blueberry Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting blueberries?
Absolutely! When selecting blueberries, look for plump, firm berries with a deep blue color and a silvery bloom. Avoid any that have dark spots or wrinkles, as these can indicate overripeness. Fresh is always best, but feel free to use frozen blueberries if they’re more convenient—just toss them in straight from the freezer without thawing!

How should I store leftover Blueberry Monkey Bread?
Best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that exposing them to air can dry them out. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for about a week. Just make sure to wrap it well so it doesn’t lose moisture!

Can I freeze Blueberry Monkey Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, first ensure the monkey bread has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Oh no, that can be disappointing! If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Always check the yeast by mixing it with warm (not hot) liquid and a bit of sugar—let it sit for about 10 minutes until it’s frothy. In the future, ensure your yeast is fresh and within its expiration date; that’s key for a fluffy, rising dough!

Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance?
Very much so! You can easily make this Blueberry Monkey Bread gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. However, always check the labels of your other ingredients (like baking powder and yeast) to ensure they’re gluten-free. The texture may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Can I give this Blueberry Monkey Bread to my pets?
While blueberries are safe for most pets and offer health benefits, the sugar and butter in this recipe are not suitable for them. It’s best to keep this treat for yourself and enjoy the goodness knowing it’s made just for you!