Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of sweet cinnamon and warm bread, filling your home with a cozy invitation. This is the magic of a homemade Cinnamon Bubble Roll, an exquisite pull-apart bread that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. Each tender piece of bread dough is lovingly coated in a rich, spiced caramel, creating a truly unforgettable breakfast or brunch experience. Often affectionately known as Cinnamon Monkey Bread, this delightful treat promises gooey sweetness in every single bite, making it an instant family favorite.

My own love affair with this incredible cinnamon monkey bread began years ago during a memorable stay at a charming bed and breakfast in the picturesque red rock country of Sedona, Arizona. It was there that I first tasted a version of this spectacular dish. One of the cherished souvenirs from that trip was a small pamphlet containing the recipe, among others. While their rendition, crafted with frozen roll dough and a pre-packaged butterscotch pudding mix, was certainly enjoyed by my husband and children, I knew I could elevate it. The artificial butterscotch flavor, though passable, inspired me to create a version from scratch—a decision I’ve never regretted. This homemade cinnamon bubble roll recipe far surpasses any shortcut version, delivering a depth of flavor and tender texture that’s simply unparalleled.

The Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Bubble Roll: A Brunch Centerpiece

This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. Creating a homemade Cinnamon Bubble Roll allows you to control every ingredient, ensuring a superior taste and texture that truly shines. This particular recipe yields an impressive array of 64 individual pieces of tender yeast dough, each meticulously dipped in melted butter and then generously rolled in a fragrant mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon. This meticulous process ensures that every single morsel is enveloped in a glorious, gooey, spiced caramel coating, promising an explosion of flavor with each pull.

It’s easy to see why this delectable creation earned its charming moniker, “monkey bread.” Just like a playful monkey, you and your loved ones will find yourselves pulling off piece after glorious piece, savoring every single sweet, tender, and incredibly addictive bite. It’s a treat designed for sharing, perfect for gathering around and enjoying with family and friends. This rich, sweet bread is destined to become the star of your next brunch, holiday breakfast, or any occasion that calls for something truly special and comforting.

Mastering Your Cinnamon Bubble Roll: Expert Tips for Perfect Dough and Unforgettable Flavor

Achieving the perfect Cinnamon Bubble Roll requires a bit of attention to detail, especially when working with yeast dough. But don’t be intimidated—these tips will guide you to baking success, resulting in a perfectly tender, fluffy, and flavor-packed monkey bread every time.

• Understanding Yeast Activation is Key: Our bread dough relies on yeast, a living organism, to achieve its characteristic light and airy texture. For optimal activation, the liquid (milk and water) added to your yeast mixture should be between 110-120 degrees Fahrenheit (43-49°C). PRO-Tip: Using a thermometer is highly recommended to ensure accuracy. If the liquid is too cold, the yeast won’t activate properly, leading to a dense dough. If it’s too hot (over 120 degrees), it will kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising altogether. Yeast, when fed with sugar and provided a warm environment, produces carbon dioxide, which creates those lovely air pockets in the bread.
• Kneading for Optimal Texture: Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which gives the bread its structure and chewiness. I personally find a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to be an invaluable tool for this process. It takes the hard work out of kneading, consistently producing a smooth, elastic dough. However, if you’re using a lighter-duty mixer, be mindful of its motor. Vigorous kneading can sometimes cause overheating. Periodically touch the motor area; if it feels excessively hot, give your mixer a short break. Kneading by hand is always a viable and rewarding option, requiring about 10-15 minutes of continuous effort until the dough is smooth and springs back when gently poked.
• Precision in Dough Portioning: For a beautifully uniform Cinnamon Bubble Roll that bakes evenly and presents perfectly, consistent dough ball sizes are crucial. PRO-Tip: After the first rise, gently pat your dough into an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Then, using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, divide this square into 64 small, approximately 1×1-inch (2.5×2.5 cm) pieces. This simple trick ensures each piece is roughly the same size, leading to even cooking and a more attractive final product.
• Creating the Ideal Proofing Environment: The second rise, or proofing, is vital for a light and fluffy bread. PRO-Tip: The ideal environment for proofing yeast dough is warm and slightly humid, with a temperature between 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit (27-32°C). Any hotter, and the dough might rise too quickly, which can negatively impact the final texture and flavor. To create this environment, you can place the covered Bundt pan in a turned-off oven with just the light on (the light often provides enough warmth), or in a warm spot in your kitchen. A warm, draft-free location allows the dough to slowly develop its full flavor and rise beautifully.
• To Glaze or Not to Glaze: The final touch of a sweet glaze is entirely up to personal preference. My family, with their motto of “Everything tastes better with frosting!”, wholeheartedly endorses a generous drizzle. A simple powdered sugar glaze not only adds another layer of decadent sweetness but also helps to seal in moisture, creating an even more melt-in-your-mouth experience as it dries slightly. I’ve certainly never heard any complaints about this decision!

The beauty of this Cinnamon Bubble Roll lies not just in its taste, but in the fun of pulling apart the individual pieces. This hands-on enjoyment is a significant part of its charm and why it consistently vanishes quickly from the serving plate.

The Art of Layering and Baking Your Sweet Bread

Once your perfectly portioned dough balls are ready, the assembly process for your Cinnamon Bubble Roll is an enjoyable ritual. Each small ball is first submerged in a bowl of melted butter, ensuring a rich base, before being thoroughly coated in the aromatic brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. This double-dipping creates that signature gooey, caramel-like crust that makes monkey bread so irresistible. As you place these coated spheres into your heavily greased Bundt pan, try to arrange the second layer of dough balls over the seams and gaps of the first layer. This thoughtful placement helps ensure a more cohesive and visually appealing presentation when the bread is inverted, providing an even distribution of those delicious caramel pockets.

The anticipation builds as the pan goes back for its final proof, the dough slowly expanding to nearly fill the pan. Then, into the oven it goes, transforming into a golden-brown masterpiece. The baking process, typically around 30-35 minutes, fills your kitchen with an intoxicating aroma of cinnamon and warm butter. Once baked, allowing it to cool slightly in the pan before inverting onto a serving plate helps the caramel settle without sticking, ensuring a smooth release. A final drizzle of the sweet glaze while still warm allows it to melt slightly, adhering perfectly to every crevice, promising an even more delightful eating experience.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

While a Cinnamon Bubble Roll is most often enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, it’s also delicious at room temperature. It’s a versatile dish that shines on various occasions:

• Brunch Extravaganza: Serve it as the star of your weekend brunch, perhaps alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and crispy bacon for a balanced spread.
• Holiday Morning Treat: It’s a fantastic choice for festive mornings like Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving, offering a special touch without too much fuss.
• Mother’s Day Delight: Surprise Mom with this heartwarming treat, showing her some extra love on her special day.
• Simple Sweet Breakfast: Perfect for a relaxed Sunday morning, allowing everyone to pull off their own pieces at their leisure.
• Evening Dessert: Don’t limit it to breakfast! Warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream make a decadent dessert.

Feel free to experiment with variations too! Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a nutty crunch, or a handful of dried cranberries for a tart counterpoint. A touch of orange zest in the glaze can also add a bright, citrusy note.

The Surprising Benefits of Cinnamon: More Than Just a Spice

While this particular Cinnamon Bubble Roll recipe is certainly a sweet indulgence, it’s worth noting that cinnamon itself boasts a host of impressive health benefits. These advantages won’t magically counteract all the sugar in this delightful recipe, but it’s a good reminder of why this ancient spice is so revered. Perhaps you’ll be inspired to sprinkle a little extra on your oatmeal for a healthier breakfast!

• Blood Sugar Regulation: Research suggests that cinnamon can have a positive effect on blood sugar levels. It may improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin, the hormone responsible for transporting sugar from the bloodstream to the cells. This could be particularly beneficial for individuals categorized as prediabetic or those looking to manage their blood sugar naturally.
• Antioxidant Powerhouse: Cinnamon is absolutely packed with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols. These compounds help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that contribute to aging and various chronic diseases. Incorporating cinnamon into your diet can contribute to overall cellular health.
• Heart Health Support: Several studies indicate that cinnamon may contribute to improved cardiovascular health. It has been shown to potentially lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while maintaining or even improving “good” HDL cholesterol. These effects could play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease.
• Antimicrobial Properties: Beyond its flavor, cinnamon is known for its potent antibacterial and antifungal properties. Its active compounds, like cinnamaldehyde, may help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria. This extends to oral health, where cinnamon may help decrease plaque development on teeth. Furthermore, cinnamon oil has long been used as a traditional remedy to help alleviate tooth pain until a visit to the dentist is possible.

So, while you’re enjoying the rich flavor of your Cinnamon Bubble Roll, you can also appreciate the hidden power of the key spice that gives it its name!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Bubble Roll

Can I prepare Cinnamon Bubble Roll ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before. After shaping the dough balls and placing them in the Bundt pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature and rise for about an hour in a warm spot before baking as directed.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Cinnamon Bubble Roll tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheating slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a warm oven will help restore its gooey texture.

Can I use a different size pan?

This recipe is designed for a standard 10-12 cup Bundt pan. If you use a smaller pan, you might have too much dough and it could overflow during rising or baking. If you use a larger pan, the bread might be flatter and not as tall. Sticking to the recommended pan size is best for optimal results.

What if my yeast doesn’t foam?

If your yeast mixture (milk, water, sugar, yeast) doesn’t become foamy or bubbly after 5-10 minutes, it likely means your yeast is dead or the liquid temperature was incorrect. You’ll need to discard that mixture and start over with fresh yeast and properly tempered liquid to ensure your dough will rise.

More Irresistible Brunch Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of sweet, comforting, and delicious brunch treats like this Cinnamon Bubble Roll, you’ll adore these other fantastic recipes. Expand your brunch repertoire and impress your guests with these delightful baked goods:

• Blueberry Swirl Bread: A beautiful and flavorful bread featuring swirls of juicy blueberries, perfect for a vibrant morning.
• Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake: Combining the best elements of a classic cinnamon roll with the ease of a coffee cake, this is a crowd-pleaser.
• Raspberry Cream Scones: Delicate and tender scones bursting with fresh raspberries and a hint of cream, ideal for a refined brunch.
• Cinnamon Sticky Buns: Rich, gooey, and utterly decadent, these sticky buns are a true indulgence for any sweet tooth.
• Raspberry Coffee Cake: A moist and crumbly coffee cake studded with bright raspberries, offering a wonderful balance of sweet and tart.
• Cinnamon Twist Bread: A visually stunning twisted bread with layers of cinnamon sugar, perfect for tearing and sharing.
• Explore even more delightful Brunch Recipes to find your next favorite!

Cinnamon Bubble Roll Recipe

Description

Gooey, cinnamon-laden bubble rolls, perfect for breakfast or brunch!

Yield

8 servings

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

35 minutes

Total Time

50 minutes (Note: Total time does not include dough rising times, which add approximately 2 hours.)

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (2 tablespoons softened for greasing Bundt pan, 2 tablespoons melted for dough mixture)
• 1 cup warm milk (approx. 110°F / 43°C)
• ⅓ cup warm water (approx. 110°F / 43°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 package (2¼ teaspoons) Red Star Platinum yeast (or active dry yeast)
• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for work surface
• 2 teaspoons salt

For the Cinnamon Coating:

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Heavily grease a 10-12 cup Bundt pan with the 2 tablespoons of softened butter. Set aside.
2. Activate the Yeast: In a large measuring cup or small bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, 2 tablespoons melted butter, ¼ cup sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
3. Mix the Dough: In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the flour and salt. With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour in the yeast mixture.
4. Knead the Dough: Once the dough begins to come together, increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for 6 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Remove the dough from the mixer bowl and transfer it to a large bowl that has been lightly greased. Turn the dough over once to coat. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in a warm, draft-free spot. Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size, which typically takes about 1 hour.
6. Prepare Coating Ingredients: While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon coating. In one shallow bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and cinnamon. In another shallow bowl, place the 8 tablespoons of melted butter.
7. Shape the Dough: On a lightly floured work surface, gently pat or roll the risen dough into an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the dough into 64 equal 1×1-inch (2.5×2.5 cm) pieces.
8. Coat the Dough Balls: Roll each small dough piece into a neat ball. Dip each ball first into the bowl of melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll it generously in the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture until well covered.
9. Layer in Bundt Pan: Arrange the coated dough balls in the prepared Bundt pan. Try to distribute them evenly. For a better presentation, when placing the second layer of dough balls, aim to position them over the seams or gaps of the first layer.
10. Second Rise: Cover the Bundt pan loosely with plastic wrap and place it back in a warm spot. Let the dough rise for another hour, or until the dough almost fills the pan.
11. Bake the Bubble Roll: Remove the plastic wrap from the pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Cinnamon Bubble Roll for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches about 200-205°F (93-96°C).
12. Cool and Invert: Let the baked bubble roll cool in the Bundt pan for 5 minutes. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate. Allow it to cool for an additional 10 minutes before applying the glaze.
13. Prepare the Glaze: While the bread is cooling, prepare the optional glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons milk, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and free of lumps.
14. Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm (but not piping hot) Cinnamon Bubble Roll. Serve immediately while warm and gooey. Enjoy!

Notes

• Total preparation and cook time does not include the essential rising times for the dough.
• The sweet glaze is optional. This bubble roll is also wonderfully delicious served plain.
• This recipe has been adapted from a classic recipe featured in Cook’s Illustrated.

Recommended Products

• Nordic Ware Platinum Collection Bundt Pan
• KitchenAid KSM150PSER Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield, 5-Quart

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Nutrition Information

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.