Easy Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread with Cream Cheese Glaze – Gooey Homemade Pull-Apart Bread

There’s something almost impossible to resist about a warm pan of cinnamon roll monkey bread fresh from the oven. Imagine soft, fluffy pieces of homemade dough coated in cinnamon sugar, baked together with a buttery brown sugar sauce, and finished with a thick drizzle of tangy cream cheese glaze. Every piece pulls apart to reveal a tender, pillowy center surrounded by sticky, caramelized cinnamon goodness.

This easy cinnamon roll monkey bread with cream cheese glaze brings together the best parts of classic cinnamon rolls and traditional homemade monkey bread. Instead of shaping individual rolls, you’ll divide soft yeast dough into bite-sized pieces, coat each one in cinnamon sugar, and bake everything together in a Bundt pan. The result is a beautiful pull-apart bread with golden edges, a soft interior, and plenty of gooey cinnamon flavor in every bite.

Whether you’re planning a cozy fall breakfast, Thanksgiving brunch, Christmas morning treat, or a sweet weekend baking project, this homemade monkey bread recipe is guaranteed to make the kitchen smell incredible. It’s especially delicious served warm with fresh coffee, and if you already love our Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll definitely want to add this pull-apart version to your baking list.

Easy Homemade Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

Homemade monkey bread is a sweet, shareable pull-apart bread made from small pieces of yeast dough coated in butter and cinnamon sugar. The pieces are layered into a Bundt pan, covered with a buttery brown sugar mixture, and baked until golden.

Unlike a traditional cinnamon roll, which is rolled into a spiral and sliced, monkey bread is made from many individual dough pieces. As the bread bakes, the pieces expand and gently connect, creating a tender loaf that can be pulled apart by hand.

This recipe uses homemade yeast dough rather than refrigerated biscuit dough. That extra step produces a softer, fluffier texture and a more traditional bread-like interior.

The cream cheese glaze adds the finishing touch. Its slight tanginess balances the rich cinnamon sugar coating and buttery caramel-like sauce.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or holiday gatherings. You can even prepare it the night before and bake it fresh the following morning.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

Soft and fluffy homemade dough: Making the dough from scratch gives this monkey bread a tender, bakery-style texture.

Gooey cinnamon sugar coating: Every piece is rolled in cinnamon sugar, ensuring delicious flavor throughout the bread.

Buttery brown sugar sauce: The sauce melts between the dough pieces during baking, creating rich, sticky edges.

Cream cheese glaze: A smooth, tangy glaze makes the bread taste like a combination of cinnamon rolls and pull-apart caramel bread.

Perfect for sharing: Guests can easily pull apart individual pieces without slicing the entire loaf.

Great for holidays: This recipe works beautifully for Thanksgiving breakfast, Christmas morning, fall brunches, and family gatherings.

Make-ahead friendly: You can assemble the monkey bread the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Customizable: Add pecans, apples, chocolate chips, or pumpkin pie spice for different seasonal variations.

Ingredients for Homemade Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

The ingredients are divided into four parts: homemade dough, cinnamon sugar coating, brown sugar sauce, and cream cheese glaze.

For the Homemade Dough

3¾ cups (470g) all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour provides enough structure for the dough while keeping the finished bread soft and tender. Avoid adding too much flour, which can make monkey bread dry.

1 cup (240ml) warm whole milk: Milk adds moisture and richness. Warm it to approximately 105–110°F (40–43°C), which helps activate the yeast without overheating it.

2¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast: Yeast allows the dough to rise and creates the fluffy texture. One standard packet contains approximately this amount.

¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar: Sugar lightly sweetens the dough and supports yeast activity.

¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted: Butter adds flavor and helps produce a soft crumb. Let it cool slightly before mixing it into the dough.

1 large egg: The egg contributes richness, structure, and tenderness.

1 teaspoon fine salt: Salt balances the sweetness and improves the dough’s flavor.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar: Creates the sweet coating around each dough piece.

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Gives the monkey bread its classic warm cinnamon flavor.

½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted: Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the dough.

For the Brown Sugar Sauce

¾ cup (150g) packed light brown sugar: Creates the sticky, caramel-like coating during baking.

¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter: Melts with the brown sugar to create a rich sauce.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened: Creates the smooth, tangy base of the glaze.

¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze without leaving a grainy texture.

2–3 tablespoons whole milk: Adjusts the glaze until it’s thick but pourable.

½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and cream cheese flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread from Scratch

Follow these detailed steps to make soft, gooey homemade monkey bread with cream cheese glaze.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Pour the warm milk into a large mixing bowl. Add the active dry yeast and 1 teaspoon of the measured granulated sugar.

Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes.

The surface should become foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.

If the mixture doesn’t foam, check the yeast expiration date and milk temperature before proceeding.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Add the remaining granulated sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture.

Whisk until the ingredients are combined.

The butter should be warm rather than hot so it doesn’t damage the yeast.

Step 3: Add the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing with a wooden spoon or stand mixer.

Continue mixing until a soft dough forms.

The dough should feel slightly tacky but shouldn’t stick excessively to your hands.

If necessary, add a little additional flour, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface.

Knead by hand for approximately 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

If using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, knead for approximately 6–8 minutes.

The dough should stretch without tearing immediately.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Lightly grease a large mixing bowl.

Place the dough inside, turning once to coat the surface lightly with oil or butter.

Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.

Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for 60–90 minutes, or until approximately doubled in size.

Rising time may vary depending on room temperature.

Step 6: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Generously grease a 10–12-cup Bundt pan.

Pay special attention to the center tube, corners, and decorative ridges.

The brown sugar sauce becomes sticky during baking, so proper greasing is essential for easy removal.

Step 7: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.

Stir until evenly mixed.

Place the melted butter for coating in a separate bowl.

Step 8: Divide the Dough

Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down.

Transfer it to a clean work surface.

Using a bench scraper or sharp knife, divide the dough into approximately 40–48 small pieces.

Try to keep the pieces relatively similar in size so they bake evenly.

Step 9: Shape the Dough Balls

Roll each piece of dough gently into a small ball.

The balls don’t need to be perfectly round.

Slight differences in shape will give the finished monkey bread a natural, homemade appearance.

Step 10: Dip the Dough in Butter

Dip each dough ball into the melted butter.

Turn gently to coat the surface.

Allow excess butter to drip off before moving to the cinnamon sugar.

Step 11: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Roll each buttered dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Make sure the surface is evenly coated.

This step creates the signature cinnamon-sugar layers that make monkey bread so delicious.

Step 12: Arrange the Dough in the Bundt Pan

Place the coated dough balls loosely inside the prepared Bundt pan.

Arrange them in layers around the center tube.

Avoid pressing them together tightly because they need room to expand during the second rise.

Step 13: Prepare the Brown Sugar Sauce

Combine the brown sugar and butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.

Stir for approximately 2–3 minutes, until the butter melts and the mixture becomes combined.

Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

The mixture may still look slightly grainy, which is normal.

Step 14: Pour the Sauce Over the Dough

Carefully drizzle the warm brown sugar sauce over the coated dough pieces.

Distribute it as evenly as possible throughout the Bundt pan.

As the bread bakes, the sauce will melt and flow between the pieces.

Step 15: Let the Dough Rise Again

Cover the Bundt pan loosely with a clean kitchen towel or lightly greased plastic wrap.

Let the dough rise for approximately 30–45 minutes, until visibly puffy.

The dough doesn’t need to double in size during this second rise.

Step 16: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Position a rack in the lower-middle section of the oven.

Place the Bundt pan on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any butter or sugar that may bubble over.

Step 17: Bake Until Golden

Bake the monkey bread for approximately 35–45 minutes.

The top should become deeply golden brown, and the dough should be cooked through in the center.

If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil during the final portion of baking.

For a more accurate doneness check, insert an instant-read thermometer into a central dough piece, avoiding the sugary sauce. The bread should register approximately 190–200°F (88–93°C).

Step 18: Cool and Invert

Remove the Bundt pan from the oven.

Allow the monkey bread to cool for approximately 8–10 minutes.

Place a large heat-safe serving plate over the pan.

Using oven mitts, carefully invert the pan and plate together.

Slowly lift the Bundt pan away.

Be careful because the brown sugar sauce will still be very hot.

Step 19: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

Place the softened cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl.

Beat until smooth.

Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract.

Gradually add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the glaze reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

Step 20: Drizzle and Serve

Allow the monkey bread to cool slightly before glazing.

Drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the top, allowing it to run naturally between the dough pieces.

Serve warm while the bread is soft and the cinnamon sugar coating is still gooey.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need complicated equipment to make homemade monkey bread.

A 10–12-cup Bundt pan is the most important item. Its center tube helps the dough bake evenly while creating the traditional ring shape.

You’ll also need a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a kitchen scale if available, a wooden spoon or stand mixer, a dough scraper, a small saucepan, a whisk or electric mixer, and a large serving plate.

A rimmed baking sheet is useful for catching any sauce that bubbles over during baking.

Delicious Monkey Bread Variations

Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread

Replace part of the ground cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice.

This variation is particularly delicious during fall and Thanksgiving.

For more pumpkin breakfast inspiration, try our Pumpkin Pie Baked Oatmeal.

Apple Cinnamon Monkey Bread

Add approximately ¾ cup of finely diced apple between the layers of cinnamon-coated dough.

Pat the apple pieces dry before adding them to prevent excess moisture.

This variation pairs beautifully with other autumn apple recipes, including our Cinnamon Apple Galette.

Pecan Caramel Monkey Bread

Sprinkle approximately ½ cup of chopped toasted pecans between the dough layers.

The nuts add crunch and complement the buttery brown sugar sauce.

Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread

Add approximately ½ cup of mini chocolate chips between the layers.

The chocolate melts into the warm cinnamon bread, creating a richer dessert.

Maple Cream Cheese Monkey Bread

Replace 1 tablespoon of the glaze milk with pure maple syrup.

The maple flavor works especially well with cinnamon and brown sugar.

Orange Cinnamon Monkey Bread

Add 1–2 teaspoons of finely grated orange zest to the cinnamon sugar mixture.

The citrus aroma makes this variation particularly suitable for holiday brunches.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Monkey Bread

Use fresh yeast. Old or inactive yeast can prevent the dough from rising properly.

Measure flour accurately. Too much flour creates a dry, dense dough. For consistent results, use a kitchen scale.

Don’t skip kneading. Proper kneading develops gluten, helping the bread become soft and elastic.

Allow enough rising time. The dough should rise according to its appearance rather than the clock alone.

Grease the Bundt pan generously. Sticky brown sugar can make the bread difficult to remove.

Don’t pack the dough balls tightly. Leave room for expansion during the second rise.

Watch the baking time. The outside may brown before the center is fully baked.

Invert while warm. Waiting too long can cause the caramelized coating to stick to the pan.

Add the glaze after slight cooling. This prevents it from becoming too thin and running completely off the bread.

How to Make Monkey Bread Ahead of Time

This recipe is a great option for busy holiday mornings.

Prepare the dough, complete the first rise, shape the dough balls, coat them in cinnamon sugar, and arrange them in the prepared Bundt pan.

Add the brown sugar sauce, cover the pan tightly, and refrigerate overnight.

The next morning, remove the pan from the refrigerator.

Allow the dough to sit at room temperature until visibly puffy, usually about 60–90 minutes, depending on the temperature of your kitchen and how much it rose overnight.

Bake according to the recipe instructions.

This method is especially convenient for Christmas morning because most of the preparation is completed the night before.

For a savory breakfast to serve alongside the monkey bread, our Easy Slow Cooker Christmas Breakfast Casserole for Kids makes a delicious holiday pairing.

How to Store Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

Monkey bread tastes best when served fresh and warm.

If the bread hasn’t been glazed, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

You can also refrigerate unglazed bread for up to 4 days.

Once the cream cheese glaze has been added, refrigerate leftovers promptly in an airtight container.

To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for approximately 10–20 seconds, checking frequently.

For larger portions, cover loosely with foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.

Can You Freeze Monkey Bread?

Yes. Homemade monkey bread freezes well, especially before adding the cream cheese glaze.

Allow the baked bread to cool completely.

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Freeze for up to 2 months for the best texture.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Prepare a fresh batch of cream cheese glaze for the best flavor and consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Monkey Bread Made Of?

Traditional monkey bread is made from small pieces of dough coated in butter and cinnamon sugar, layered in a pan, and baked together.

Many quick versions use refrigerated biscuit dough, but this recipe uses homemade yeast dough for a softer texture.

Why Is It Called Monkey Bread?

The name is commonly associated with the way people pull apart individual pieces of bread using their fingers, rather than slicing it like a traditional loaf.

Can I Make Monkey Bread Without a Bundt Pan?

Yes.

You can use a deep 9×13-inch baking dish, although the shape and baking time will differ.

Start checking for doneness earlier because the dough will be spread across a larger surface.

Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?

Yes.

Use the same weight of instant yeast and mix it directly into the dry ingredients.

You can skip the initial yeast activation step.

Why Is My Monkey Bread Dry?

Dry monkey bread is usually caused by adding too much flour or baking the bread too long.

Keep the dough slightly tacky and begin checking for doneness near the lower end of the recommended baking time.

Why Is My Monkey Bread Doughy in the Middle?

The dough may have been packed too tightly, the Bundt pan may have been too small, or the bread may need additional baking time.

Check the center of the bread before removing it from the oven.

Can I Make Monkey Bread the Night Before?

Absolutely.

Assemble the bread, refrigerate it overnight, and allow the dough to become puffy before baking the following morning.

Does Monkey Bread Need to Be Refrigerated?

Unglazed monkey bread can be stored at room temperature briefly.

However, monkey bread topped with cream cheese glaze should be refrigerated because the glaze contains dairy.

Can I Make Monkey Bread Without Cream Cheese?

Yes.

You can omit the glaze entirely or replace it with a simple powdered sugar and vanilla glaze.

Is Monkey Bread Served for Breakfast or Dessert?

Both.

Monkey bread is popular for breakfast, brunch, holiday gatherings, and dessert.

Its sweet cinnamon flavor makes it especially suitable for Christmas morning and fall baking.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

Because monkey bread is rich and sweet, it pairs well with fresh fruit, eggs, coffee, and other breakfast dishes.

For a cozy fall brunch, serve it alongside Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins and Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte.

For Christmas morning, pair it with Easy Slow Cooker Christmas Breakfast Casserole for Kids and Kid-Friendly Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Bar.

You can also serve it as a warm dessert after a comforting fall dinner.

Nutrition Information

Estimated nutrition per serving, based on 12 servings:

Nutrient	Approximate amount
Calories	485 kcal
Carbohydrates	72g
Protein	7g
Fat	19g
Saturated Fat	11g
Sugar	37g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	260mg

Nutrition values are estimates and will vary depending on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and the amount of butter and sugar coating consumed.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread with Cream Cheese Glaze is everything a cozy homemade breakfast should be: warm, fluffy, buttery, sweet, and full of cinnamon flavor.

The soft pull-apart dough, sticky brown sugar coating, and creamy glaze make it a wonderful alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday breakfast, weekend brunch, or family dessert, it’s a recipe worth making again.

For more cozy breakfast inspiration, explore our Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting, Pumpkin Pie Baked Oatmeal, and Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins.