Get ready for a treat that will wow your taste buds! In this post, we’ll dive into making Gooey Salted Caramel Apple Monkey Bread. It combines soft biscuit dough, sweet apples, and rich caramel, all topped with flaky sea salt. This dessert is fun to prepare and perfect for sharing. Let’s jump right into the ingredients you need to create this delightful dish!
Ingredients
Here is what you need to make gooey salted caramel apple monkey bread:
– 2 cans (16 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough
– 3 medium apples, peeled and diced (for a tart flavor, Granny Smith is recommended)
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
– 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– Optional: Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
These ingredients work together to create a sweet and sticky treat. The apples add a nice tartness, while the caramel sauce brings rich sweetness. Brown sugar and spices make everything warm and cozy. You can use any baking apples, but Granny Smith gives a great balance. The flaky sea salt on top is key; it really enhances the flavor. Don’t forget the whipped cream or ice cream for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a bundt pan.
– In a large bowl, mix 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Set aside.
– Open 2 cans of refrigerated biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into quarters. Toss the pieces in the sugar-spice mix until well coated.
Layering the Ingredients
– Layer half of the biscuit pieces in the bottom of the greased bundt pan.
– Add half of the diced apples on top.
– Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the apples.
– Place the remaining biscuit pieces on top of the apples.
– Add the rest of the diced apples and drizzle the last of the caramel sauce over everything.
Baking and Finishing Touches
– In a small pan, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Pour it evenly over the layers in the bundt pan.
– Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
– Let the monkey bread cool for about 10 minutes. Invert the pan onto a plate to release it.
– Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top and add more caramel sauce if you like.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Preparation
– Choosing the right apples for flavor: I love using Granny Smith apples. They add a nice tartness. This cuts through the sweetness of the caramel. Other apples like Honeycrisp also work well. They balance sweet and crisp.
– Ensuring even coating of biscuit pieces: When you cut the biscuit dough, toss them in the sugar mix slowly. Make sure each piece gets coated well. This helps every bite burst with flavor.
Baking Tips
– Checking for doneness: After baking, look for a golden-brown top. You can also insert a toothpick to check. If it comes out clean, your monkey bread is ready!
– Adjusting baking time for different ovens: Ovens can vary. Start checking around 30 minutes. If it’s not done, add more time in 5-minute increments.
Serving Tips
– Presentation ideas for serving: Serve the monkey bread warm. Drizzle with extra caramel for a show-stopping look. Use a large plate to catch any gooey goodness that drips.
– Pairing suggestions with add-ons: Add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side. This makes each bite even more delightful.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can switch up the fruit in your monkey bread. Try using pears or blueberries instead of apples. Each fruit adds its own twist. Pears give a soft texture, while blueberries burst with juice. Both are fun choices.
Adding nuts can boost the texture. Walnuts or pecans work great here. They add a nice crunch that contrasts with the gooey bread. Just chop them up and mix them in with your biscuit pieces. You’ll love the extra flavor and bite!
Dietary Adjustments
For those who need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free biscuit dough. Many brands make great alternatives. Check the store for these options. They work just as well in the recipe.
If you want a dairy-free version, choose dairy-free butter instead. There are also dairy-free caramel sauces available. Make sure to read labels to ensure they fit your needs. Enjoy your monkey bread without dairy and still have fun!
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep leftover monkey bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the bread moist and tasty. Store it at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, put it in the fridge. It will stay good for about a week, but it may dry out a bit.
Long-term Storage
For long-term storage, freeze the monkey bread. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
To reheat the monkey bread, you have a few options. The best way is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the monkey bread in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat it for about 15-20 minutes. This way, it stays gooey and warm. You can also use a microwave but be careful not to overheat it. Just heat it in short bursts to keep the texture nice.
FAQs
What can I substitute if I don’t have caramel sauce?
If you don’t have caramel sauce, you can use honey or maple syrup. Both add sweetness and flavor. You can also try making a simple sauce with brown sugar and butter. Mix equal parts in a pot, heat until smooth, and drizzle over the bread.
Can I make this monkey bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this monkey bread ahead of time. Assemble it in the bundt pan, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Bake it the next day when you’re ready to enjoy it. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Is there a way to make it less sweet?
To make it less sweet, reduce the amount of brown sugar and caramel sauce. You can also use tart apples like Granny Smith. They add flavor and balance the sweetness. Another option is to skip the extra caramel drizzle on top.
How do I know when the monkey bread is done baking?
You know the monkey bread is done when it turns golden brown and feels firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the bread. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can use homemade biscuit dough for this recipe. Just make sure your dough is thick and not too sticky. The homemade dough can add a fresh flavor and texture that store-bought dough might not have.
This blog showed you how to create a delicious monkey bread using simple ingredients like biscuit dough, apples, and caramel sauce. We walked through easy steps, from prepping to baking and serving. You learned tips to make it even better, like using different fruits or adjusting flavors. Storing leftovers correctly keeps your treats fresh. Monkey bread is fun to make and share. Enjoy every bite, and don’t be afraid to try your own twists!
