Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe

If you are craving a warm, gooey, and deliciously nutty treat that feels like a comforting hug from the inside out, this Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine tender dinner rolls soaked in a buttery, brown sugar and butterscotch sauce, studded with crunchy pecans, all baked to sticky perfection. This treat is not just a simple dessert—it’s a showstopper for gatherings, breakfasts, or any time you want to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Sticky, sweet, and nutty, this Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe truly blends comforting textures and rich tastes into one unforgettable dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully simple, yet each one plays an essential role in creating that perfect pull-apart texture and sticky sweetness. The chopped pecans add crunch and a nutty depth, while the frozen dinner rolls serve as a soft, fluffy base. Brown sugar and butterscotch pudding mix bring layers of rich caramel flavor, and melted butter ties everything together in a luscious glaze.

• 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• 24 unbaked frozen dinner rolls: Rhodes brand is recommended for the best fluffy, light texture after baking.
• 1 cup light or dark brown sugar: Provides deep caramel notes and contributes to the sticky glaze that makes monkey bread so irresistible.
• 1 (3.5 ounces) box Cook ‘n Serve Butterscotch Pudding Mix (not instant): Infuses a luscious butterscotch flavor and helps thicken the gooey syrup.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted: Binds everything together and adds richness and moisture to the rolls.

How to Make Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Begin by spraying a 10-inch Bundt pan generously with nonstick cooking spray. This step is crucial because it ensures that your monkey bread will release easily after baking and that all those sticky, nutty bits come out intact and beautiful.

Step 2: Layer the Pecans and Rolls

Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Then arrange the frozen rolls in a single layer on top of the pecans. Using frozen rolls gives you the perfect rise and soft texture after baking, almost as if the dough was made fresh that morning.

Step 3: Add Brown Sugar and Pudding Mix

Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the rolls, distributing the sweetness generously so every bite is coated. Follow by sprinkling the dry butterscotch pudding mix over the sugar. This addition is a bit of a secret weapon that creates a rich, caramel-like sauce as it bakes.

Step 4: Drizzle with Butter

Pour the melted butter over all the layers to bind flavors and promote that golden, gooey crust that is so addictive. The butter melts into the sugar and pudding mix creating sticky pockets of deliciousness throughout the bread.

Step 5: Let It Sit Overnight

Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let it rest at room temperature overnight for about 8 hours. This slow rise allows the frozen dough to thaw and absorb all the flavors, soaking up the buttery, sweet mixture beautifully.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C), then pop the Bundt pan inside. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be hard to resist.

Step 7: Cool and Invert

Once out of the oven, place the pan on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes to let the sticky glaze set slightly but still be warm. Then carefully cover the Bundt pan with a plate larger than the pan and invert the monkey bread onto it. Be cautious—your pan and bread will still be very hot and sticky!

How to Serve Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze can elevate this sticky pecan monkey bread to a whole new level of sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh sliced strawberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon also complement the nutty caramel flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This monkey bread pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salads to balance the sweetness or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you are indulging in it as a dessert. For breakfast or brunch, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a delightful contrast of savory and sweet.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe in mini Bundt pans for individual portions that guests can enjoy at a party. Alternatively, place it in the center of a breakfast table surrounded by bowls of butter, honey, and whipped cream for a fun interactive meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover monkey bread covered tightly with plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep the gooey texture, avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the bread.

Freezing

You can freeze baked monkey bread by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover monkey bread in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For a softer texture, cover with foil while reheating to trap steam. Alternatively, briefly microwave individual portions but be mindful that the crust won’t stay as crisp.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rolls instead of frozen dinner rolls?

While fresh rolls can work, frozen rolls like Rhodes are preferred because they rise slowly and evenly during baking, creating the perfect soft and fluffy texture essential to this monkey bread.

Why is Cook ‘n Serve Butterscotch Pudding Mix important?

This pudding mix adds a luscious butterscotch flavor and thickens the sugar mixture during baking, producing the sticky, caramel-like sauce that makes this recipe so special and different from typical monkey breads.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, you would need to substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use a vegan butterscotch pudding mix if available, and choose vegan-friendly dinner rolls. Keep in mind that these changes may alter the traditional flavor and texture.

What is the best way to prevent sticking in the pan?

Spraying the Bundt pan generously with nonstick cooking spray is essential to prevent sticking. You can also lightly dust the pan with flour after spraying for extra insurance, though this is usually not necessary.

Can I add other nuts or dried fruits?

Absolutely! While pecans give a classic flavor and crunch, walnuts, almonds, or even dried cherries can be lovely additions. Just be mindful not to overcrowd the pan to allow even baking.

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe is a truly joyful treat that brings people together with its irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re crafting it for a cozy family breakfast or an impressive dessert, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. Dive into the sticky, buttery goodness and let it become a beloved part of your recipe collection—it’s just that good!

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