Monkey Bread Muffins are fun, fluffy bites of goodness that bring a little sweetness to your day! These mini treat muffins are coated in cinnamon and sugar—yum!
They’re like a party in your mouth! I love how easy they are to pull apart and enjoy. Perfect for breakfast or a snack—just be careful, they disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Biscuit Dough: The fluffy layer of these muffins comes from refrigerated biscuit dough. For a healthier option, look for whole grain or even crescent roll dough. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade biscuit dough is always a nice touch!
Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: I love using both for a sweet base. However, you can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly lower GI option. Adjust the brown sugar based on how sweet you like it; less brown sugar will give you less gooeyness.
Cinnamon: This warm spice adds great flavor! If you want a twist, try pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice instead. You could even mix in some nutmeg for additional warmth.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling the saltiness. You could substitute with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version. I’ve also tried using a half-and-half mixture of butter and oil for added moisture.
Nuts: While pecans and walnuts are my favorites, you can swap them with almonds or omit them entirely for a nut-free treat. Raisins or chocolate chips could also be fun add-ins!
How Do You Get the Best Fluffy Texture in Muffins?
Achieving the ideal fluffy texture in Monkey Bread Muffins is key! Here’s how:
- Make sure not to overmix the biscuit pieces; gentle tossing keeps them light.
- Let the muffin batter rest for a few minutes before filling the cups. This promotes a lighter texture.
- Avoid opening the oven too early; let them bake for the full time to form a nice rise.
Following these tips will help you get those beautifully fluffy, pull-apart muffins that everyone loves!
How to Make Delicious Monkey Bread Muffins
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Muffins:
- 2 cans refrigerated biscuit dough (about 16.3 oz each)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract or maple extract for added flavor
- Optional: chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), about 1/2 cup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and around 18-22 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll need about 40-45 minutes to enjoy these delightful muffins from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar:
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This sweet blend will coat the biscuit pieces and give them that classic monkey bread flavor. Set this mixture aside for later.
3. Prepare the Biscuit Dough:
Open the cans of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate each biscuit into small pieces. You can cut or tear each biscuit into about 6-8 bite-sized chunks. These pieces will create that fun, pull-apart texture.
4. Coat the Biscuit Pieces:
Toss the biscuit pieces in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are well coated. If you want to add great crunch and flavor, feel free to mix in chopped nuts at this point!
5. Fill the Muffin Tins:
Evenly distribute the coated biscuit pieces into the muffin cups, filling each well nearly to the top. It’s okay if some are a bit higher—this makes for fun, puffy muffins!
6. Make the Topping:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar until it is all dissolved and combined. Remove from heat and add the vanilla or maple extract if you’re using them. This will make for a deliciously gooey topping!
7. Assemble the Muffins:
Spoon the melted butter and brown sugar mixture evenly over the biscuit pieces in the muffin cups, making sure each muffin gets a good amount.
8. Bake the Muffins:
Put the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and fully cooked in the middle. They should look nicely puffed and inviting!
9. Cool and Invert:
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully invert the muffin tin onto a plate or serving tray. The gooey topping will drizzle over the muffins, making them look delicious!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These muffins are best served warm. Enjoy pulling apart the sticky, sweet bites, and share them with friends or family—they’re sure to be a hit!
These Monkey Bread Muffins turn the classic treat into individual, delightful portions, perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings!
Can I Use Other Types of Dough?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use crescent roll dough or even homemade biscuit dough for a more personalized touch. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary slightly.
How to Store Leftover Muffins?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying!
Can I Make These Muffins in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cinnamon sugar and cut the biscuit pieces a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge separately, and assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
What Shall I Serve with Monkey Bread Muffins?
These delicious muffins are perfect on their own, but you can pair them with a side of fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a drizzle of icing for an extra sweet touch!
